The irony is that all the real world scandal will drive viewership to the series, IMO.

@Daddie0 said:

The irony is that all the real world scandal will drive viewership to the series, IMO.

Yes, it may. BUT, those who wish to tune in will likely binge the previous seasons to get caught up.

Ultimately, most who tune in to the first episode will be up to speed either by the aforementioned binge-catch up, or by being among those who had already been following the show from before the scandal broke.

As such, most of us will still have a clear sense, by the end of the first episode, that the writers, directors, and actors stayed true to the show, or failed to stay true to the show - the viewership stats by episode will tell the tale.

@Hobnobber said:

It depends on how important he was, not that much for me. Between this and the UK version, the characters aren’t that dependent on the actors. Basically any bald guy that can fake sincerity and break the fourth wall well could suit. From a comedian like a Rickles or Larry David type to a classically trained Hopkins for dark satire. The part is made for a performer that can ham convincingly. The ‘plot’ is open and meandering enough accommodate. The rest is revolving okay, I would stay if it holds together. I haven’t really checked, but past the talent, I don’t think the productions costs are that high and shoots are fast.

There was a rather lengthy, passionate discussion on whether another character could step in and assume the role of Frank Underwood here in TMDb - you'll quickly see my arguments agree with your position, while there's also not a few who just as strongly felt it couldn't be done.

BTW, I thought it was funny how many news outlets reported (mis-reported) that "Netflix has decided to drop the series." Every time I read that I thought, "That can't possibly be true...too much money/too many people involved, etc." It's just bad business.