'Reign' season 4 release date, plot news & update: Adelaide Kane refused to renew contract? Season 4 debut set

The CW has set the 2017 premiere dates for its popular dramas, including "Reign," which is scheduled to return on Feb. 10.

While fans will be happy to see their favorite historical fantasy romance series back on the small screen, the upcoming season may be the last for one of the show's main cast members. Rumors indicate that "Reign" star Adelaide Kane, who plays Mary, Queen of Scots, has turned down the opportunity to renew her contract for season 5. The actress will reportedly be working on a different project, possibly a film. Should there be truth to this rumor, fans can expect a heartbreaking end to the embattled queen in the new season.

It is also rumored that Kane will take a hiatus from "Reign" mid-season and that during this period, the central focus of the series will shift to the story of Elizabeth I of England (Rachel Skarsten).

"Reign" season 4 is expected to tell the story of how Mary transitions into her new role in the wake of her husband Francis's (Toby Regbo) death and her intensifying feud with Elizabeth.

Season 4 spoilers indicate that the rivalry between Mary and Elizabeth will come to a head and that one of them could be beheaded before the season ends. The possible death of one of the show's main characters coincides with rumors that season 4 could be the last for "Reign."

Sources say that there are indications that "Reign" season 4 will try to stay as faithful to actual historical events as possible. If this is true, then the drama will have to show Elizabeth victorious. Meanwhile, Mary will be shown captured, imprisoned, and later beheaded for the crime of plotting to assassinate Elizabeth. A historically realistic adaptation would thus pave the way for Kane's departure. If the series continues beyond Kane's exit and season 4, the story could then shift to Elizabeth's life and reign.

"Reign" season 4 debuts on Feb. 10, 2017, at 9 p.m. EST on The CW.