Jennifer Morrison of "Once Upon a Time" (OUAT) closed her chapter on the show. The actress announced in a post via Instagram that she's no longer returning to play Emma Swan after Season 6. Morrison acknowledged her departure by thanking all the people she worked with. She also acknowledged how "OUAT" changed her life, and thanked ABC for entrusting her with the role. With her contract expired, the actress decided not to sign again.
Renewal in the bubble
Because Emma Swan was such a big part of the show, it has been speculated that ABC will no longer continue with it.
Showrunners also expressed that with Morrison's departure, the show's story is complete. If ABC decides to give "Once Upon a Time" another season, however, it will be a different series and they will be rebooting the fairytale. The upside? Morrison is committed to returning for one episode. "If ABC Network does in fact order a season 7, I have agreed to appear in one episode, and I will most certainly continue to watch," the actress said.
Entertainment Weekly sources, however, said, Season 7 is a "near-lock" despite no confirmed word from ABC chief Channing Dungey. Back in January, the executive was very much aware of what's likely to happen at the end of "OUAT" this season and she nixed the idea that the show is a goner.
More stories to tell
Fans, however, want the show to continue because there are still more stories to tell. For instance, Hook (Colin O'Donoghue), Regina (Lara Parrilla), and Mr. Gold (Robert Carlyle) could still bring more life to the show. In fact, ever since Morrison hinted that Season 6 was her last, the writers have been putting more focus on these characters.
Deadline reported that the remaining characters have signaled their intent to go on with the series without the lead star, and are almost close to settling on new contracts.
Jennifer Goodwin and Josh Dallas, who met, married, and had two children on the show, are also in the midst of negotiation. But, sources say that they have been treating Season 6 as their last ever since learning that their jobs were up for renewal.
Like Morrison, they might just guest star if the show is renewed.
"Once Upon A Time" debuted on ABC to great ratings, but, recently, the numbers have been dropping, especially this season. The final episode of Season 6 is expected to air on May 14.
