"Nashville" was initially canceled by ABC after its 4th season but the show is set to come back for another installment on its new network, CMT. Season 5 is expected to feature new characters and Murray Bartlett is the first one confirmed.
Murray Bartlett will play the character of Jakob Fine, a handsome and successful designer of men's fashion. Fans are speculating that Jakob Fine could be Will's new lover but sources say although the 2 will be introduced, there will be no romance between the 2. It can be remembered that Will met up again with Kevin in last season's finale so fans are also speculating that Kevin may return too.
Another confirmed cast of the series is transgender Jen Richards who will play as a physical therapist who is described as "tough but understanding" who will help someone in the series get through their a difficult time in their life. Although there has been no confirmation yet of Richard's character but many are guessing that her friend will be Juliette, played by Hayden Panettiere, who experienced a traumatic plane crash.
Meanwhile, the casts of the show couldn't be happier now with the new network. Character Deacon, played by Charles Esten, says "You can tell when it's not time, and it wasn't time," Character Avery, played by Jonathan Jackson also said "It kind of feels, in some ways, like a new show," while Lennon Stella who plays Maddie Conrad said "Nashville" Season 5 in CMT makes her feel better.
The creator of the show, Callie Khouri also said good things about his new staff and said they are "great gifts" and looks like they have given a new life to the series. The executive producer of the show confirms that fans will be able to experience longer episodes and less character in the new season.
The show is scheduled to air on CMT this January 5, 2016, 9:00 PM with a 2-hour episode premiere.