CMT in talks to revive 'Nashville'
Lionsgate is in talks with CMT to bring back "Nashville" for a fifth season, multiple sources familiar with the discussions told The Tennessean.
If finalized Wednesday, a deal could be announced during the CMT Music Awards, which broadcast live that night.
ABC canceled the primetime drama last month amid sagging ratings, and Lionsgate immediately began shopping the show to other networks. "Nashville" has made a tremendous impact on the local film production industry and on tourism.
In an interview with The Tennessean on Tuesday at the City of Hope Softball Game, "Nashville" actor Chip Esten expressed optimism about the show's future.
ABC's 'Nashville' canceled after four seasons
"Lionsgate is still in discussions that we might end up getting to make another season somewhere else," Esten said. "I’m extremely grateful for the four years that we had at ABC and that’s how we got to be what we are. But Lionsgate doesn’t feel, and we don’t feel that all the stories are told or all the songs are sung yet. So it’s very possible. There’s still some negotiations and they’re talking to people and we could find out any time. I have no inside knowledge, but I do know there’s still a chance."
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Nashville Mayor Megan Barry posted a tweet from her official Twitter account Tuesday night about the talks.
"We are happy that @LionsgateTV is working hard to #BringBackNashville !" Barry said.
Some government incentives, which have subsidized the show's production, were already committed to a fifth season if it materialized. The state of Tennessee included $8 million in its budget for the show. Nashville Mayor Megan Barry. meanwhile, has set aside $1.375 million in her budget proposal for film incentives as well. Ken Burns' upcoming documentary about country music will receive some of that Metro money. The incentive package has also included funds from the Nashville Convention and Visitors Corp. and Ryman Hospitality.
Rumors that the show has been picked up have been reported on several websites, including TVLine.com.
"If the rumors are true, then I think it would be great for the local production community and for fans of the show," said Peter Kurland, business agent for the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees Local 492.
Reach Nate Rau at 615-259-8094 and on Twitter @tnnaterau. Reach Cindy Watts at 615-664-2227 and on Twitter @cindynwatts.