NBC’s critically acclaimed crime drama The Blacklist is moving on without its female lead. According to Deadline, Megan Boone will have her last appearance on the series in the season eight finale “Konets” on June 23rd.
Reportedly, Boone’s exit from the show was agreed upon even before The Blacklist received a season nine order in early 2021. This allowed the writers to make adjustments and conclude the story arc of her character Elizabeth “Liz” Keen.
Liz Keen has been integral to The Blacklist story as an FBI-profiler-turned-criminal, so it is unclear where the show moves on from here. It is possible that the focus will be shifted to James Spader’s Red Reddington alongside the addition of new characters.
With Boone leaving, Spader remains the series’ only remaining original cast member alongside Diego Klattenhoff and Harry Lennix.
The Blacklist was the first major exposure on television for Megan Boone, and it’s safe to say she seized her opportunity in the best way possible. Her portrayal of Liz Keen was not only met with critical acclaim but was also viewed as the major reason for the show’s strong ratings and popularity.
Boone is reportedly already plotting her next move, which is expected as The Blacklist didn’t leave her much room for other projects. Since the series premiered in 2013, her only other acting credits have been voice role in the animated sitcom Robot Chicken and a guest appearance on The Underground Railroad.
