7 reasons why Nashville deserves a fifth season

When TV’s country music drama Nashville was cancelled last month fans across the world, including myself, were devastated.

Since the show’s beginnings in 2012 we’ve seen characters develop, careers flourish and, of course, a hell of a lot of singing.

Fortunately, CMT have stepped in and renewed the show for season 5, bringing us 22 brand new episodes.

Here’s why bringing Nashville back was absolutely the right decision (but be warned there are a few light revelations about season four):

1. Fan devotion

To start with the obvious, the comments, memes, gifs and petitions shared online when ABC announced that they wouldn’t be renewing the show proved just how dedicated Nashville fans are.

The thousands of fans who tirelessly campaigned to see Rayna and Juliette back on the small screen surely deserved a more fulfilling resolution to the show.

2. The music

Being a show about country music singers, it would be a bit silly if the music sung by the characters was no good. Fortunately, some of the biggest names in the industry contribute songs to the show. It therefore comes as no surprise that a number of successful albums featuring the character’s songs have been released and that the cast members regularly tour, performing music from the show.

3. Escapism

There’s no denying that Nashville is great for those who love a bit of celebrity gossip and escapism. It gives viewers an insight into the lifestyles of the rich and famous and it’s easy viewing when you don’t want to watch anything too intense.

4. It’s respected by the country music industry

After all, it is Country Music Television who have brought the show back. Not only do country producers and singers provide music and guidance on the show, many big names have appeared on-screen as themselves. Carrie Underwood, Brad Paisley and Thomas Rhett are just a few big names who have appeared on the small screen.

5. It has A LOT of celebrity fans

Christina Aguilera and Wyclef John appeared in recurring roles, Kelly Clarkson asked characters Scarlett and Gunnar to write for her and even Michelle Obama popped up in season two.

Brace yourself, (and definitely look away if you don’t want to see some season four *SPOILERS*) as soon to be seen alongside Juliette and company are Steven Tyler, Kesha and Elton John.

6. It has a great cast

Nashville reunited us with Heroes’ stand-out actress Hayden Panettiere, The OC’s Chris Carmack and Friday Night Lights’s Connie Britton. Charles Esten reminded us how amazing his voice is and we were introduced to Sam Palladio and Clare Bowen who sound amazing on their own and in their enchanting duets.

7. Characters can be given the send-off they deserve

Many fans were not completely happy with season four. Hayden Panettiere was absent for a number of episodes as she sought treatment for her post-partum depression and a number of new characters were introduced who weren’t quite as captivating as our favourites.

The sad news is that it’s likely that a number of cast members won’t return for season five. It has already been revealed that Aubrey Peeples and Will Chase will not be coming back as the show returns on CMT and it’s likely that, with reduced production costs, more cuts are on the horizon.

While this is sad in a way, it will mean there will be more focus on the characters we have loved from the start

What are you hoping to see in Nashville’s season five? Share your comments and thoughts!