Caskett no more. Deadline is reporting, that ABC is planning a ninth season of the crime procedural without one of its two stars, female lead Stana Katic, who plays Detective Kate Beckett to Nathan Fillion’s writer-turned-PI Rick Castle. It is the main part of a major shakeup on the series, which also includes the departure of fellow original cast member Tamala Jones. Fillion has been in negotiations to return to Castle, which I hear is eyeing a shortened, likely 13-episode, ninth season, at a reduced license fee.
Katic would not comment on the circumstances surrounding her exit. When asked about the departure, she told Deadline,
“Rather then distract from what was an amazing experience, I would just like to say that I’m very grateful to ABC for giving me the opportunity to be a part of a much beloved show. Thank you to the fans.”
Since Castle has not been renewed, ABC would not comment on any plans for the length of the potential Season 9 but confirmed to Deadline that Katic and Jones won’t be part of it.
“Kate Beckett has been a beloved character on our hit series Castle for the past 8 years. We are grateful for Stana Katic’s talent and dedication to the series and we hope to continue our relationship,” ABC said in a statement to Deadline. “Tamala Jones has also been an integral part of the series and we are grateful she was a part of Castle.“
What does this mean for the show, only time will tell. I am still processing this as I write this post. Beckett was Richard’s muse, and without his muse will he still write? I know it’s called Castle, but Kate Beckett was such a big part of the show and the chemistry, I can’t seem to fathom how it will go on from here.
We would love to hear your thoughts, both good and bad in the comments below.
