Nashville Casting Shockers for 2017's Season 5 on CMT

<span class=”dropcap”>R</span>umor has it that Nashville series star Connie Britton will be departing the hit series at the conclusion of season five, but former General Hospital star Jonathan Jackson is staying.

After four seasons anchoring Wednesday nights on ABC, the network dropped the show. It was quickly picked up by CMT for a fifth season, which rolls out on January 5, 2017.

When Will Britton Officially Exit?
Entertainment Weekly reported that the character of Rayna will depart sometime during this season as Britton reportedly only signed on for 10 episodes of the new season.

Sources tell the magazine they’re “hopeful” they can sign the show’s lead to more episodes as her contract negotiations are ongoing.

Both Jonathan Jackson and Hayden Pannnettiere will be returning to the CMT series for season 5. (Photo Credit: Official Facebook, Nashville) — Both Jonathan Jackson and Hayden Panettiere will be returning to the CMT series for season 5. (Photo Credit: Official Facebook, Nashville)

Series stars Jonathan Jackson and Hayden Panettiere have both signed contracts for a full season of the series on CMT and are expected back for all 22 episodes.

Also returning for a full season are Charles Esten, Sam Palladio, Clare Bowen, Lennon Stella, Maisy Stella and Chris Carmack.

Will Chase and Aubrey Peeples, who played Luke and Layla, respectively, will not be back as series regulars.

What’s Next For Rayna?
This season of Nashville will showcase the character of Rayna at a crossroads in her life.

TV Guide reported that Rayna crosses paths with a wealthy app developer who wants to introduce her music to a new generation. The site reported that the developer also has “more nefarious plans for her.”

Rayna and Deacon's wedding was a highlight of season 4. (Photo Credit: Official Facebook, Nashville) — Rayna and Deacon’s wedding was a highlight of season 4. (Photo Credit: Official Facebook, Nashville)

Will she return to the music career that she is beloved for in Nashville, or will Rayna stay behind-the-scenes as the head of her recording label?

James (Connie Britton) will try to get her groove back. Her career as a performer has taken a back seat to running a record label, but not for long!

The drama makes its debut on CMT with a spectacular two-hour premiere on Thursday, January 5, at 9 p.m. EST.

Are you excited for the newest season of Nashville?

Share your thoughts. Leave a comment in the section below. Additionally, for more Nashville spoilers updates, recaps, and news, go to Soap Hub’s Facebook fanpage and join the conversation about all your favorite soaps!