Orange Is the New Black [1] season three will premiere on June 12 (this Friday!), and we have quite a few details about what's coming in the next chapter. The latest big news is that the show has already been renewed for season four [2], but before we get that far, let's talk about the upcoming season. We have the latest trailer, pictures, and any and all details. When you're done, check out these fun behind-the-scenes pictures [3] and of course, make sure you're up to speed on what happens at the end of season two [4].
The Theme Will be Faith and Motherhood
At a Television Academy screening and panel, creator Jenji Kohan revealed that the season three themes are faith and motherhood [5]. “It’s a little lighter than season two,” she also added.
The Trailer Reveals a Lot
The trailer for season three revealed a lot of interesting things [6], which we detailed.
And the Pictures Reveal a Little More
Like Alex's teary return and more [7].
The Premiere Date
Season three will be available for binge watching on June 12!
Jason Biggs Isn't Coming Back
Did Larry's storyline wrap up with him riding off into the sunset with Polly? Netflix confirmed in February that Jason Biggs will not be in season three [8]. That doesn't mean we'll never see Larry again, though; Biggs seemed optimistic he could return when he commented on the move to the New York Daily News [9]. "They’re not focusing on Larry at the moment. Larry will not be in season three. But there’s always a possibility he can come back," Biggs said.
Mary Steenburgen Has Joined the Cast
Veteran actress Mary Steenburgen recently joined the cast for season three, and star Pablo Schreiber, who plays Mendez, aka Pornstache, told Vulture she'll be playing his mom [10].
But Pornstache Might Not Be Around as Much
In the same interview, Schreiber said his character's imprisonment — and his own casting in another series — means that he's in fewer episodes: "I'm a series regular now on a show called The Brink on HBO. But his [Pornstache's] mother is making an appearance on season three. Mary Steenburgen has been cast as my mom. I'm not sure what she'll do that will advance the Pornstache plotline, but for now, Mendez is in prison, biding his time."
Alex Will Be in More Episodes, Though
Prepon's character Alex wasn't seen as much in season two, since she got out of the clink for a while, but she will be back full time in season three, as we saw in the trailer [11]. Probably because Piper gets her thrown back in . . .
Mike Birbiglia Is In
Mike Birbiglia has joined the cast [12] in an unknown role, though we haven't seen footage of him yet.
Actress Ruby Rose Has Joined the Cast
Another new inmate has joined the cast in the form of Australian actress Ruby Rose [13], who will play a potential love interest for both Piper and Alex.
The First Clip Reminds Us That Vee Is Still a Presence
In the first clip released from the season, Suzanne is dealing with the loss of Vee, whom we all saw get hit by a van in the season two finale.