ABC’s ‘Scandal’ season 5 spoilers: On Marcus’ reappearance and the new Gladiators

The makeup of “Scandal” has certainly changed quite a big since the beginning of the show. Former series regulars like Columbus Short and Henry Ian Cusick are not longer around, and even cast members who are still on the show (see Darby Stanchfield) are busy with their characters in other roles.

With that in mind, there really have not been many Associates at all in Olivia Pope and Associations, but this could change moving into the upcoming fifth season. Shonda Rhimes has reportedly said (per TVLine) that in many ways, season 5 is going to be a “reconstitution” of some of the Gladiators as an organization. A part of this may just mean that some of the old gang will have a chance to work together again, while another part of this may mean some new faces show up.

One of the bigger mysteries this summer has been the return for Cornelius Smith Jr., who played the activist Marcus Walker back during “The Lawn Chair” and its surrounding saga. He is going to be a series regular for the fifth season, but his specific role is not entirely clear. Rhimes told the publication that Smith is not turning up until a little bit later in the fall, and she was coy about what his specific role will be. Let’s hope this is not a Michael Socha – “Once Upon a Time” situation, where a guy is brought in, we get excited, and then there’s never much given for him to do.

The new season of “Scandal” premieres on ABC in September, and some of the primary orders of business include defining Olivia and Fitz’s new relationship and seeing just how Elizabeth replaces Cyrus on Fitz’s staff.

Want to get some other news right now when it comes to “Scandal”? Then be sure to head over to the link here now! Also, you can sign up to get some further TV news on all we cover via our CarterMatt Newsletter. (Photo: ABC.)