CMT has renewed its original drama series Nashville for a sixth season, it was announced today. The new season will include 16 episodes and debut in 2018. Moreover, the network revealed that the second half of Season 5 will begin on Thursday, June 1 at 9/8c.
The renewal comes after the veteran drama killed off its lead character Rayna James (played by Connie Britton) halfway through its fifth season. The second half of the season includes 11 episodes.
It was also announced today that Jeffrey Nordling (Big Little Lies, 24) has booked a recurring role in the current season. He will play Brad Maitland, an extremely successful, charming, egotistical and narcissistic owner of the most successful record label in Nashville. He joins fellow new additions Rachel Bilson and Kaitlin Doubleday.
The drama stars Hayden Panettiere, Charles Esten, Clare Bowen, Sam Palladio, Chris Carmack, Jonathan Jackson, Lennon Stella and Maisy Stella.
Season 6 will be the drama's second season on CMT and the second for showrunners Marshalle Herskovitz and Ed Zwick. They executive produce with Callie Khouri and Steve Buchanan. Lionsgate Television, ABC Studios and Opry Entertainment produce.
"Nashville is our biggest hit and we're thrilled its fans have now become consistent CMT viewers," said Brian Philips, President, CMT. "As fans ourselves, we couldn't be happier with our hometown show's creative resurgence! We can't wait for you to see what comes next."
