'Person of Interest' season 5 plot, cast news: Sarah Shahi returns full-time

Sarah Shahi as Sameen Shaw in "Person of Interest"CBS

Actress Sarah Shahi, who portrays the character Sameen Shaw in "Person of Interest," will be coming back in the upcoming fifth season of the show. According to a report from TVLine, she will be back full-time, although this does not necessarily mean she will be in all of the planned episodes of season 5. 

Shahi had taken maternity leave since the middle of season 4, with her last appearance apparently killing off her character. However, her character appeared twice after her supposed death: once in a scene that revealed she had survived, and a second appearance during the season finale that was done with digital editing. 

"I go back in September – full-time," the actress told TVLine. Season 5 was ordered for a total of 13 episodes of which Shahi stated, "I'll probably do eight or nine." 

Many rumors have floated online concerning the show's cancellation now that season 5 is only getting 13 episodes instead of the usual 22. Even CBS Entertainment Chairman Nina Tassler doesn't have the answers.

"We haven't determined that yet," Tassler said during the Television Critics Association event via TVGuide. "That show's in production now and will be coming on later this season, but we haven't determined if it's the end of the series yet." 

Bringing Shahi back may have some connection to this, but the actress stated that she has no idea what the showrunners and writers have in mind with regard to her character and the show. It is possible that she is being brought back on board to give the show closure when the series comes to an end. It may also be possible that the showrunners are attempting to boost interest to help "Person of Interest" get renewed for season 6.

"Person of Interest" season 5 premieres this September.