Which Two Cast Members May Depart Nashville?

Cuts on the show were expected as it has to adjust from a Big 4 broadcast network license fee to a basic cable fee.

Chase, who plays Luke Wheeler on the show, became a series regular in season three following a run the previous season as a recurring character. In the Season 4 finale, Luke celebrated victory in his campaign to support client Will Lexington against homophobia, reconciled with his son and even reconnected with his ex-wife for a happily ever after.

Season four ended with Layla trying to destroy the relationship between Hayden Panettiere’s Juliette and Jonathan Jackson’s Avery in order to avenge the death of Jeff Fordham.

In an interview with Deadline, CMT programming chief Jayson Dinsmore revealed one idea that the team is planning for “Nashville” season 5.

It’s unclear why exactly Peeples and Chase are leaving the series but it’s likely a combination of contract and story issues. Nashville is a ideal addition to our evolving line-up of big music specials, documentaries, and original series.

The news is sure to be divisive among fans of the show.

Beggs made his own announcement via social media, crediting the loyal fans of the series for the renewal.

The recent celebratory news that Nashville is moving to CMT is tarnished slightly with the announcement of two cast member departures ahead of its upcoming fifth season.

The series also has new showrunners, with Marshall Herskovitz and Ed Zwick taking over for Dee Johnson.

While a season five premiere date has yet to be announced, it’s believed that production for the show will begin soon.