Should Shameless go on without Emmy Rossum?

TV Guide

Shows like The Vampire Diaries have carried on without the main star. But can Shameless fill the post-Rossum void? The actress is leaving behind cast members who have developed into mature actors who could handle the dramatic heavy lifting alongside William H. Macy, according to Megan Vick. "Both Rossum and (executive producer John) Wells have expressed their desire for the show to go on after her departure, promising there are many more Gallagher stories to tell," says Vick. "We believe them, and while Rossum may be ready to leave, many fans aren't ready to say goodbye to the Gallaghers entirely. The longtime series, which will air its 100th episode next month, is still Showtime's highest-rated show, so a renewal is far from out of the question. The writers are currently crafting a Season 9 finale to say goodbye to Fiona, and it will undoubtedly service the character and respect the work that Rossum has put into this show. The reason Shameless has lasted so long is because of those same writers' abilities to create smart, compelling storylines for these characters year after year, but after they've written her goodbye there needs to be a serious discussion of how this show evolves without its central character — and if that evolution is actually good for the show or just necessary to fill Rossum's void."

ALSO:

• William H. Macy on Rossum's exit: "We’ve been expecting it... she’s young and I think she’s made the right choice"
• Rossum is reportedly leaving for professional reasons: She never expected to be on Shameless for nine seasons