Netflix has just locked up one of its flagship original programs for three more years. That's right, "Orange is the New Black" has been renewed by the streaming service and Lionsgate today, ensuring the women's prison dramedy a continued life. Even better, executive producer Jenji Kohan has agreed to stay on as showrunner for seasons five, six and seven. Seasons one through three are currently streaming on Netflix.
"Jenji and her team have produced a phenomenal and impactful series that is both funny and dramatic, outrageous and heartfelt," said Cindy Holland, vice president of original content at Netflix, according to Coming Soon. "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."
"Three more years! Not quite a political term, but still plenty of time to do some interesting things," Kohan said. "In some cultures, 'May you lead an interesting life,' is a curse, but I don't live in those cultures. 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!"
"We're proud to continue our long-standing relationships with Netflix and the incredibly talented Jenji Kohan and delighted that one of the most acclaimed shows on television will continue on Netflix for three more seasons," said Lionsgate Television Group Chairman Kevin Beggs. "Jenji's brilliant creative vision and a truly amazing cast have catapulted Orange is the New Black to the forefront of the platinum age of television, and we're pleased that Orange fans around the world will be rewarded with another three seasons."
Late last month, Netflix announced that its other headlining original series "House of Cards" will be returning for fifth season next year, though without showrunner Beau Willimon. Locking up both series for the foreseeable future is a major victory for the still ascending streaming service.
Season four of "Orange is the New Black" will become available on Friday, June 17. Season four of "House of Cards" will debut on Friday, March 4.
