'House of Cards' season 5 spoilers: Will it be the show's final season?

Awaiting fans of "House of Cards" is another season of vile Machiavellian scheming, as the series is rumored to return on March 2017.

As early as now, fans are already coming up with theories on how the story will take shape. Who dies and who lives? Most importantly, will the show be renewed for another season after its fifth?

Not-so-good news for the fans, but the rumor mill is also buzzing of a probability that the show is nearing its end. Adding to the speculations is series creator Beau Willimon's decision to exit the show after the fourth season. Willimon announced his departure last January, stating "venturing new opportunities" and "working on other projects" as his reasons to end ties with the show. If indeed this season is the last we will see from "House of Cards," Frank Underwood's days are numbered.

As reports speculate, Claire has already secured her position as the vice president and will likely be "one heartbeat away from the presidency." By now it has been established from the past season that new characters definitely twist up the series' storyline. The Hollywood Reporter shared predictions on new cast members that should be in the show. Frank needs a "whistle-blower, Zoe Barnes-type journalist that Frank will use in his constant scheming," which the publication describes to suit Rose McGowan the best. Another character to shake up the story might be the Head of Secret Service. This person will play a pivotal role in Frank's life. Given that he will become Frank's closest ally, new challenges might be in store for Stamper.

Melissa James Gibson and Frank Pugliese will replace Beau Willimon as the new showrunners of "House of Cards." As reported by Yibada, Robin Wright who also plays the role of Frank Underwood's wife Claire will be directing several episodes for the upcoming season 5.