Sullivan’s Crossing fans have a new reason to be curious about what lies ahead for season 5, especially after Chad Michael Murray revealed that even he is currently unsure about the direction of the story. Although the series has officially received a renewal for another season, the actor who plays Cal Jones admitted that he has not yet been informed about the upcoming storyline. For someone who is usually familiar with his character’s journey before filming begins, this situation feels completely different.
In previous seasons, Chad explained that he typically had a clear understanding of where Cal’s emotional journey and overall character arc were heading. However, this time around, the actor finds himself waiting for answers just like the viewers. During a conversation with Good Housekeeping, he shared that he has not received any details about what season 5 will focus on, which is unusual compared with his past experiences on the show.
Chad admitted that his schedule has been extremely demanding, leaving him with little time to connect with the creative team and discuss the future of Sullivan’s Crossing. He explained that he normally knows the major storyline and direction of a season well ahead of time, but this year has been different. Between his busy workload and the fast pace surrounding the production, he has not yet had the opportunity to ask the writers what they have planned for Cal and the rest of the characters.
The actor even joked that he might need to make that phone call soon to finally get the answers he has been waiting for. While he may not know the official storyline for season 5, Chad does have his own ideas about where Cal’s journey could go next. His thoughts reveal that he wants the character to experience deeper emotional challenges and personal growth.
One major storyline Chad believes could be explored is Cal finally confronting the full impact of his father’s death. The series has already touched on this emotional subject, particularly during season 4, but the actor feels there is still more to explore. According to Chad, losing a parent is a life-changing experience, and seeing Cal truly process that grief could create a powerful storyline.
At the same time, he acknowledged that Cal has already started dealing with the loss, meaning the emotional impact might not be exactly the same as it would have been if the storyline had happened earlier. Still, he believes there could be value in showing another stage of Cal’s healing process and allowing viewers to see a more vulnerable side of the character.
Beyond grief, Chad also suggested an even more dramatic possibility for season 5: a storyline where Cal is forced to step away from his role as the strong, dependable figure at Sullivan’s Crossing. Throughout the series, Cal has often been portrayed as someone who supports others, provides guidance, and helps people through difficult moments. He is frequently the person others rely on when they need stability or comfort.
However, Chad thinks it would be fascinating to reverse that dynamic and place Cal in a situation where he is the one who needs help. He suggested that seeing Cal become seriously ill could create an emotional challenge unlike anything the character has faced before. Instead of being the person taking care of everyone else, Cal would have to experience what it feels like to be vulnerable and dependent on others.
The actor believes this type of storyline could be especially meaningful because Cal has built much of his identity around being a source of strength for the people around him. Watching him struggle physically and emotionally could reveal new layers of his personality and create opportunities for deeper storytelling.
A storyline involving Cal’s illness or temporary absence from his leadership role at the Crossing would also change the balance between the characters. The people who have always turned to him for support would have the chance to step forward and take care of him in return. For Chad, that emotional reversal could provide some of the most powerful moments the series has explored.

Although fans will have to wait to discover what the writers have planned for Sullivan’s Crossing season 5, Chad Michael Murray’s comments suggest that the next chapter could bring major emotional developments for Cal. Whether the story focuses on unresolved grief, personal struggles, health challenges, or another unexpected direction, the actor believes there are many possibilities for expanding Cal’s journey.
For now, even the star himself is waiting to learn what comes next. While that uncertainty is unusual for Chad, it also means season 5 has the potential to surprise both the cast and the audience. As the series continues, viewers can expect more emotional storytelling, character growth, and new challenges waiting for the residents of Sullivan’s Crossing.