"Shameless" season 8 concluded with many possibilities for Fiona (Emmy Rossum) and Lip (Jeremy Allen White). It manifests that a lot is in store for the Gallaghers in season 9. What can fans expect in the next season of the series?

In an interview with TVLine, executive producer Nancy Pimental explained the meaning of Lip driving off with his motorcycle. She also talked about the romantic outlook of Fiona.

Pimental said that Lip's action means that anything is possible for him and that he is in control of his life. It also means that he is taking his life back and he has the freedom to be whatever he wants to be. This could also be the reason why he urged Sierra (Ruby Modine) to give her ex-lover another try. He is unsure of his feelings and he is not certain about who he wants to be with.

Despite breaking up with Sierra, the latest season ended showing Lip in a happy mood while he drove off with this newly repaired motorcycle. Lip is now more self-aware and he seems to question some of his actions in the past which includes Sierra. This is one reason why he decided to broke up with her. Also, his role models for love were only Frank (William H. Macy) and Monica (Chloe Webb).

On the other hand, there is a possibility that Ford (Richard Flood) will end up with Fiona. She wants Ford to be crazily in love with her. But Ford said that he does not fall madly in love like a teenager. According to Pimental, this is good for Fiona because adult love is better. Pimental also said that they will explore the romantic link between Fiona and Ford.

The executive producer also shed light on the mixed emotion that Ian showed in the season finale. Ian was arrested by the police. At first, he was proud of it but, later on, he turned sad and gloomy. This may show the true character of Ian since he is suffering from bipolar disorder.

Den of Geek reports that "Shameless" season 9 will begin production this year and it is expected to premiere in 2019.