Netflix has renewed its original series Orange is the New Black for three more seasons, with showrunner Jenji Kohan keeping her role for seasons 5, 6 and 7.
“Three more years! Not quite a political term, but still plenty of time to do some interesting things. In some cultures, ‘May you lead an interesting life,’ is a curse, but I don’t live in those cultures,” said Kohan in a statement. “Here’s to keeping it interesting. Thanks, Netflix! Both thanks and you’re welcome Lionsgate! And kudos and gratitude to the stellar cast and crew and writers and producers and editors and musicians and mixers and shleppers … with whom I have the pride and honor of crafting this show. Three more years! Three more years!”
No announcement has been made about how the renewal will impact the comedy-drama series’ ensemble cast. The show is based on Piper Kerman's memoir, Orange Is the New Black: My Year in a Women's Prison, and initially chronicled Kerman’s (Taylor Schilling) experience adapting to prison life. The last two seasons saw a shift, where the show spent more time on its ensemble cast. Current cast members include: Schilling, Uzo Aduba, Kate Mulgrew, Laura Prepon, Laverne Cox, Dascha Polanco, Danielle Brooks, Selenis Leyva, Samira Wiley, Taryn Manning, Yael Stone, Jackie Cruz, Lea DeLaria, Adrienne C. Moore and Elizabeth Rodriguez Michael Harney and Nick Sandow.
“Jenji and her team have produced a phenomenal and impactful series that is both funny and dramatic, outrageous and heartfelt,” said Cindy Holland, VP of original content at Netflix, in a statement. “Audiences around the world have come to love the ladies and men of Orange is the New Black, and we are eager to see where three more seasons will take them.”
Earlier this month, Netflix announced it is also renewing its flagship original series House of Cards for another season. Unlike Orange is the New Black; however, its original showrunner and creator Beau Willimon will not be a part of the future seasons.
Season 4 of Orange is the New Black will release on June 17.
