Earlier in 2014, Michael Lombardo, HBO president (programming), had announced that the upcoming fifth season of the 1920s prohibition era television drama 'Boardwalk Empire' will be the final season of the series. Entitled "Golden Days for Boys and Girls," the final season, will premiere on HBO on September 7.

Participating in a panel discussion of Television Critics Association, Lombardo then said, "It has been an incredible honor to bring this powerful and groundbreaking series to our subscribers. Terry Winter has created one for the ages."

Since Lombardo made this announcement early this year, there has been much speculation regarding the precise reason why the period drama is coming to an end now. However, one thing is certain, the series is not ending because of poor ratings. In fact, 'Boardwalk Empire' Season 4 may be considered one of most revered installments, as it not only earned numerous awards and nominations, but also positive reviews from its viewers.

There are rumors that program creator Terence Winter is currently working on another period drama with HBO. While they have yet to release any details regarding the purported project, it is rumored to be set in the 1970s.

As far as 'Boardwalk Empire' Season 5 is concerned, fans will see a giant seven-year jump from the prohibition period of the 1920s to the Great Depression of the 1930s in the new installment.

Michael K. Williams, who portrays the role of Albert "Chalky" White in the show, said, "The storyline has jumped seven years (into the future), which is why I have the beard now," he added "The Depression has set in. The days of the shiny shoes and fancy suits are long gone."

Talking from a historical point of view, Season 5 will begin in an era that would be one year away from Franklin D. Roosevelt election into office, an event that would bring in disaster for the Republican Steve Buscemi's Enoch "Nucky' Thompson.