'Sons of Anarchy' spinoff news, release date: Emilio Rivera confirmed to return for 'Mayans MC'

A promotional still from "Sons of Anarchy" featuring actor Emilio Rivera as Marcus Alvarez FX

It has been two years since "Sons of Anarchy" ended, and the concept of a spinoff series has been brewing even before the original show ended. Now titled "Mayans MC," the series will focus on the main rivals of SAMCRO, and it has now been confirmed that "Sons of Anarchy" actor Emilio Rivera will be joining the cast.

Rivera played the character Marcus Alvarez, leader of the Mexican motorcycle club that the spinoff series is focusing on. The actor made the announcement via Instagram, showcasing a photo of his character and the logo of The Mayans. He also requested his fans to continue following updates for "Mayans MC."

Alvarez was portrayed as an antagonist in season 1 of "Sons of Anarchy" since The Mayans at the time were the main rivals to SAMCRO, the group that "Sons of Anarchy" focused on. However, in the latter seasons, he had forged an alliance with SAMCRO, and Alvarez was last seen in season 5, negotiating a deal with SAMCRO.

Cinema Blend reports that the exact details of the spinoff show are still unknown. It is still uncertain if "Mayans MC" is going to be a prequel that showcases the origins of The Mayans or if it will take place after the "Sons of Anarchy" finale but in a new location, away from the SAMCRO territory.

If the latter proves true, then Marcus Alvarez will not be a prominent character, given he is focused on leading The Mayans around Oakland and the rest of North California. He may still appear occasionally from time to time, connecting the show's chapter of the Mayans with the North California chapter that Alvarez manages.

No word has been released about the other spinoff series — the prequel set years before "Sons of Anarchy." Tentatively titled "First 9," this show will focus on the founders of SAMCRO, and the "Sons of Anarchy" lead character, Jax (Charlie Hunnam), will only appear as a young child.

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