'House of Cards' season 5 spoilers and release date news: Will Claire become the president? Series expected to return next year

(Facebook/HouseofCards)Will Doug and Leann become involved romantically in season 5?

Two months after "House of Cards" returned to Netflix for a fourth season, fans still can't get enough of the Underwoods. Now that Frank and Claire are reunited, politically at least, how will they face the challenges posed by the Islamic Calliphate Organization and Governor Will Conway?

"House of Cards" season 4 saw the Underwoods mostly at odds, with Claire (Robin Wright) and Frank (Kevin Spacey) both sabotaging each other in their own way. The season also introduced Leann Harvey (Neve Campbell), Claire's ally and a formidable foil to Frank's right-hand man, Doug Stamper (Michael Kelly). Despite their differences, the Underwoods pulled together during their most difficult time, with Frank finally choosing his estranged wife Claire as his vice president.

A lot of seeds have been sown in season 4 that viewers have already started speculating on the direction the show will take in season 5.

One thing that fans are really looking forward to see more of is the battle between Doug and Leann. The two are undeniably powerful, as they both have the ear and the trust of Frank and Claire, respectively. Some quarters are thinking that a romance between the two will be inevitable, with Doug probably being more attached to or invested in the relationship than Leann. However, some are thinking that the two might even connive to get more power. While it's definitely possible, it's unlikely that they would abandon their respective loyalties.

Season 4 saw the rise of Claire Underwood, as the First Lady left her husband and embarked on her own campaign. Along the way, she hooked up with Yates, the writer initially hired by Frank to do his autobiography. The affair between Claire and Yates has the president's approval, but it's unlikely that it will last next season. After all, even if Frank is seemingly okay with the idea of his First Lady having a lover, Leann might not take kindly to this and usher Yates to be on his way.

With Claire now vice president, Frank is undoubtedly on shaky ground. His powerful wife might take it into her head to dispatch of him and lead the country herself. It's also possible that he might preempt any plans she has and find a way to get rid of Claire first.

No return date has been set yet, but "House of Cards" season 5 is expected to return to Netflix in 2017.

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