Though House of Cards has (rightfully) come to an end, I can't help but imagine other ways the series could've ended, even without Kevin Spacey.
I applaud Netflix for taking a strong stance against Spacey's sexual assaults and allegations. Sexual assault is a serious crime, and it's refreshing to see a large, powerful company take such a strong stance, even when it is against one of the actors in their top-earning show. It does seem unfair to me, however, that House of Cards should come to an end because of the actions of one person.
Warning: Season five spoilers ahead!
It seems like Netflix was setting up a Claire Underwood story arc and triumph in season six, so why not keep it going? Why not give a strong female role a chance to take on the role of the president and thrive at it? Claire has had to take a back seat almost the entire run of House of Cards, and now, when it's finally her turn, it is ruined for both her character and herself.
Shows like Two and a Half Men have written out main characters due to outside issues, such as alcoholism or addiction. These shows have managed to continue without one of the main characters, and House of Cards would be able to do the same.
With over 300 cast and crew members, it seems unfair for so much hard work to go to waste. Kevin Spacey is the issue, and removing him would allow for a final season of House of Cards revolving around Claire Underwood and tying up loose ends for fans that have been along since the beginning.
The UK version of House of Cards ends with the assassination of the main character (equal to the US's Frank Underwood). This same plot device can be used in the US version of House of Cards using a stunt double or Kevin Spacey look alike within the first few minutes of the first episode. The assassination sets up the plot for Claire Underwood to come into power. The irony of Frank Underwood working his whole life only to lose it all to his wife would not be lost on the audience. The fall from grace could parallel the reality of the situation.
The cast and crew, as well as the audience of House of Cards, deserve an ending to the show, even without Kevin Spacey. This is Netflix's chance to develop a strong, female lead role, while also staying true to themselves and cutting out Spacey's character.
