USA has renewed the legal drama “Suits” for an eighth season, sans stars Patrick J. Adams and Meghan Markle, the network announced on Tuesday.
The show will return with creator Aaron Korsh and stars Gabriel Macht, Sarah Rafferty, Rick Hoffman and Dulé Hill, who will be upped to series regular.
“After seven seasons, ‘Suits’ remains one of USA Network’s most beloved and popular series,” NBCUniversal Cable Entertainment exec Chris McCumber said in a statement. “While we’re excited for Season 8, everyone at USA will deeply miss Patrick and Meghan, and are grateful for the talent and commitment they brought to ‘Suits’ season after season. We wish each of them nothing but the very best.”
“I would like to thank Patrick and Meghan for their extraordinary contributions over the last seven years,” added Korsh. “Not only have they been outstanding in their roles as Mike and Rachel, they are also superb human beings who will always be beloved members of the ‘Suits’ family, and we wish them well in their days to come. Speaking of days to come, I am incredibly excited to welcome back our phenomenal crew and cast – Gabriel, Sarah, Rick and Dulé -who will continue the roller coaster ride with all of our amazing fans. Season 8 will have everything from shifting alliances and internal power plays, to secrets, betrayals and fiery relationships. Keep an eye out for an adversarial new character that will give Harvey a run for his money.”
The cast departures had been widely expected since last November, when Markle confirmed her engagement to Prince Harry, the fifth in line to the throne of Great Britain.
“Suits” will return for the second half of Season 7 on Wednesday, March 28 at 9/8c.