“Scandal” Season 7 lead star Kerry Washington recently opened up about Olivia Pope’s fate in the upcoming episodes.

While speaking with Entertainment Weekly, the actress revealed that the way Olivia will handle situations in the premiere will make viewers wonder whether or not power has corrupted her. Olivia is currently working as the chief of the staff for President Mellie Grant (Bellamy Young), and she’s also running B613.

“I do believe in the saying that fame doesn’t change you, it reveals who you are, so that’s a lot of what this season has been. There’s been a lot of exploration of how can she navigate this extraordinary amount of power being the Chief of Staff of the president and running B613?” she said.

Meanwhile, Olivia will also be introduced to a series of new characters in the final season of the hit ABC series. According to TV Line, “Breaking Bad” star Dean Norris has just been cast in a recurring role. Unfortunately, other details about his character are still being kept under wraps.

But in an exclusive photo released by ABC to the publication, Norris’ character is seen talking to Cyrus Beene (Jeff Perry) while at President Grant’s first state dinner. The two seem to be having a peaceful conversation since Cyrus has a smile on his face. Norris’ character will be working closely with Cyrus and possibly Mellie, so Olivia will most likely share scenes with him.

Last month, ABC also announced the casting of “Homeland” alum Shaun Toub and “Nashville” star Jay Hernandez in “Scandal” Season 7, according to TV Line. Details about their roles are also being kept a secret, but there are speculations that they will be teaming up with Quinn (Katie Lowes) at Quinn Perkins and Associates (QPA).

The Gladiator will now be heading what was once called Olivia Pope and Associates (OPA) and will struggle to find clients since they are not as popular as the professional fixer.

“Scandal” Season 7 will premiere on ABC on Oct. 5 at 9 p.m. EDT. The entire season will have a total of 18 installments.

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