'Castle' season 9 news, updates: Has the crime-drama been renewed for another season or is a spin-off in the offing?

"Castle" season 9 was officially canceled by ABC after the network learned that Stana Katic, who plays Kate Beckett, will not be back to reprise her role. Now there are talks that a possible spin-off series could be in the works lest a revival doesn't push through.

Fans lost all hope of seeing their favorites Richard Castle and Kate Beckett together and alive after ABC canceled the ninth season of "Castle" following Katic's confirmation that she was out of the series. The abruptness of the situation prompted the creators to produce a mediocre season 8 finale, which caused fan furor over social media.

However, speaking to TV Guide, ABC president, Paul Lee admitted that he wants to keep "Castle" on the air. The only way to make that a reality is to renew the series for a ninth season or create a spin-off.

"We'd love for 'Castle' to keep going for many years to come," he admitted. "There are a lot of conversations going on about how we can do that. I don't want to give glimpses to where they go, but there are lots of good ideas in there. I'm feeling optimistic that we've got some good ideas."

Movie News Guide has reported that ABC has already sent a contract renewal to Fillion. Even the contracts of other cast members have been renewed, including Jon Huertas who plays Detective Esposito and Seamus Dever who plays Detective Ryan. A season 8 newcomer, Toks Olagundoye (Hayley), has also been recast.

Apparently, ABC Entertainment is bent on convincing Katic to return for "Castle" season 9. While rumors have it that personal differences between Fillion and Katic prompted the latter's exit from the series, a statement she made might have hinted her interest in continuing her relationship with the network.

Speculations are still rife as to whether the contract renewals were for a series spin-off or season 9, but according to Morning News USA, the real challenge is whether either one could survive without Katic who portrayed her character effectively.

More updates regarding "Castle" season 9 would be made available in the coming days.