ABC’s Castle might look or feel a bit different should it return for Season 9, ABC president Paul Lee shared Saturday at the Television Critics Association.

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Asked by TVLine if the network is looking into extending Castle’s longevity — or setting up a contingency plan, in case either Nathan Fillion or Stana Katic don’t re-sign for the fall — by way of a spinoff or “reset” that changes up the show’s premise or setting, Lee said, “We’d love Castle to keep going for many years to come. There are a lot of conversations going on as to how we could do that.”

As reported this week by TVLine, TV vet Gerald McRaney is set to recur, starting with Episode 14, as the head of a legendary (and secretive) private detective society; Firefly alum Summer Glau will guest-star as one of the group’s members. That episode will send Rick, Alexis and Hayley to Los Angeles to investigate a murder that has ties to an NYPD case.

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Lee, though, would not disclose which particular avenues are being explored for any possible Castle Season 9. “I don’t want to give a glimpse to what those ideas might be,” he said, “but I’m feeling optimistic that we’ve got some good ideas.”

Want more scoop on Castle, or for any other show? Email insideline@tvline.com and your question may be answered via Matt’s Inside Line.

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