'House of Cards' season 5 air date, spoilers, plot rumors: death of key character to pave way for spinoff?

Netflix's political drama "House of Cards" will return to the airwaves next year, and there are speculations that it will feature the death of a major character.

Even though Netflix still has not yet announced a definitive premiere date for "House of Cards," rumors about the show's storyline have been making the rounds since the last season ended earlier this year. Season 4 saw Frank Underwood (Kevin Spacey) trying to be re-elected as the President of the United States with his wife Claire Underwood (Robin Wright) as the Vice President.

Since the series began, thirst for power has been a major driving force for most of the characters. While Frank is known for his Machiavellian style of pursuing his political goals, some fans might be unaware that Claire herself has been hinting about her desire for power in the previous seasons.

Latest spoiler reports note that Claire will possibly not be content with being a Vice President, and killing her husband Frank will be the only option for her to get the highest post in the country. As a strong-willed woman, Claire has her own way to get what she wants. It is believed that Claire will have Frank assassinated once he has already sworn in as president â€” immediately making her the new leader.

Rumor has it that Frank's death will lead "House of Cards" into the previously reported spinoff series titled "First Women." Most fans theorize that Frank's demise will turn the spotlight to Claire as she steps up to become the first female U.S. president. In the spinoff, Claire is the new ruler in a different political setup. According to reports, "First Women" will be produced, written and starred by Wright opposite actress Reese Witherspoon.

"House of Cards" season 5 is expected to premiere around February or March 2017 on Netflix.