'Orange is the New Black' season 4 release date, news: Hilarious holiday video gives sneak peek of returning cast members

(Netflix)

While it may be months before viewers see the fourth season of "Orange is the New Black," it seems that filming for the season is already winding down.

Actresses Taylor Schilling, Uzo Adaba, Yael Stone and Adrienne C. Moore have been spotted enjoying the holidays in Hawaii after trading in their orange jumpsuits.

The cast of the show also recently released funny rendition of "The Night Before Christmas." According to E! Online, the holiday video gives viewers a sneak peek into the returning characters for season 4. The most interesting revelation seems to be the inclusion of Laverne Cox.

In season 3, her character Sophia was transferred to SHU after her feud with Gloria led to Gloria and Aleida spreading transphobic rumors inside Litchfield. Initially, Sophia threatened to sue Litchfield but instead, got transferred for her supposed protection. According to TV Guide, the feud between Sophia and Gloria is set to continue on the fourth season.

Unfortunately, one cast member was absent from the holiday video – Natasha Lyonne, who portrays Nicky. In the beginning of season 3, Nicky was sent to maximum security and her return for the upcoming season has not been confirmed.

If she does return, one inmate will not be happy. Nicky's relationship with Red (Kate Mulgrew) will be strained after her recent transgressions. "I love her, but you know, you can't do drugs. I have no idea what's going to happen but Red's laid down an awful lot of tough love," said Mulgrew.

Even without Nicky, season 4 of "Orange is the New Black" is still bound to be full of dramatic and interesting characters. Based on previous casting announcements, there will be several new faces entering Litchfield. With the addition of new inmates, season 4 will for sure experience a lot of overcrowding issues.

Season 4 of "Orange is the New Black" will premiere on Netflix in 2016. An official release date has not yet been confirmed.

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