Released just two weeks ago, Orange is the New Black's fifth season is a game changer for the Netflix series. Taking place over three days during Litchfield's prison wide riot, the show took a much darker tone and was given higher stakes than ever before. What resulted was an emotional rollercoaster that many fans have praised for being the show's most powerful season. Give its success, you'd think that the starring cast would want to stay on the show as long possible. But that might not be the case for Danielle Brooks, who is already contemplating how long she intends to play fan favorite character Taystee.
Danielle Brooks recently spoke to EW about Season 5 of OITNB, of which she was the biggest protagonists. Regarding the future of the series, Brooks revealed she may only want to stay on the show for another two seasons, saying:
Who knows? We have until seven for sure. To be honest, I don't know if I want to play an inmate past that. I don't know if I want to do that because I have a lot in me and a lot that I want to share with the world and different characters I want to be able to bring to life. After seven, I think it might be time for me to spread my wings, but I don't want to speak too fast on that.
Say it ain't so, Taystee girl! Despite being the heart of Orange is the New Black, it looks like Danielle Brooks doesn't want to play Taystee indefinitely. OITNB is currently renewed up until Season 7, where the actress will have to decide whether or not she'd like to continue her character's journey.
It's hard to imagine Orange is the New Black without Danielle Brooks' Taystee. The lovable character has been in the show since the very first episode, and has progressed from a tertiary comedic presence to one of the lead characters. She's been able to give especially strong performances in Seasons 2 and 5, shifting focus away from the likes of Piper and Red.
Then again, we couldn't really blame Danielle Brooks for wanting to switch up her career. Seven seasons is a long time to work on a TV show, and many actors have been known to depart long running series at around this time. Brooks has been taking plenty of side jobs over the years, including guest spots in Master of None and Girls. Additionally, she originated the role of Sofia in the recent revival of the Broadway musical The Color Purple, earning her a Tony nomination int he process. Brooks' career is hot right now, so it might be wise for her to move on to some more varied projects.
You can currently catch Danielle Brooks in Orange is the New Black, which is streaming all five seasons. And be sure to check our summer premiere list to plan your next binge watch.
