Chris O’Donnell is set to star in ABC‘s upcoming drama 9-1-1: Nashville, the newest spin-off in the popular 9-1-1 franchise. The show will premiere on October 9, 2025, and follows the lives of emergency responders in Nashville, Tennessee.
Chris O’Donnell’s Role in 9-1-1: Nashville
O’Donnell plays Captain Don Sharpe, a veteran firefighter and former rodeo rider who leads a busy firehouse alongside his son, Ryan. The character is described as a devoted family man with hidden secrets.
“He’s married, he’s got a son who also works at the fire station,” O’Donnell said in an interview, teasing his role.
This marks O’Donnell’s return to TV after his long-running role in NCIS: Los Angeles. Fans are excited to see him in a new action-packed series.
Full Cast and Characters
The show features a strong ensemble cast:
- Jessica Capshaw as Blythe Ward, Don’s wife and Ryan’s mother.
- Michael Provost as Ryan Sharpe, Don’s son and a firefighter with cowboy roots.
- Hailey Kilgore as Taylor, a firefighter and talented singer.
- Juani Feliz as Roxie, a former trauma surgeon turned adrenaline-seeking firefighter.
- Hunter McVey as Blue Bennings, a troubled firefighter with a dark past.
- LeAnn Rimes as Dixie Bennings, Blue’s mother.
- Kimberly Williams-Paisley as Cammie Raleigh, a dispatcher.
Premiere Date and Time Slot
Originally set for October 16, ABC moved the premiere to October 9, 2025. The show will air at 9 PM ET, right after the flagship 9-1-1 series and before Grey’s Anatomy.
What to Expect From 9-1-1: Nashville
The series will blend high-stakes emergencies with Nashville’s music scene. Executive producer Tim Minear confirmed that music will play a big role, fitting the city’s culture.
“Nashville felt like a fun place to set a piece of the franchise,” Minear said. “It’s a very interesting city with its own personality.”
Unlike previous 9-1-1 shows, this spin-off will have a unique Southern tone while keeping the franchise’s signature drama.
Production and Behind-the-Scenes Details
The series is produced by Ryan Murphy, Brad Falchuk, and Tim Minear, the same team behind the original 9-1-1 and 9-1-1: Lone Star. Filming began in May 2025 in Georgia and Tennessee.
While no crossovers with 9-1-1: Lone Star are planned, producer Rashad Raisani hinted that appearances from past characters could happen in the future.
Fan Reactions and Expectations
Fans of the 9-1-1 franchise are eager to see how the new setting and cast will expand the series. Some hope for cameos from Rob Lowe’s character, Owen Strand, from 9-1-1: Lone Star.
“If TK & Carlos move to Nashville, that would really incentivize a lot of disillusioned fans to give this show a chance,” one fan commented online.
Others are excited about the country music influence, especially with LeAnn Rimes and Hailey Kilgore’s musical backgrounds.
How to Watch
9-1-1: Nashville will air on ABC and stream next-day on Hulu. International release details are yet to be announced.
Also read: Dexter: Resurrection Season 1 Episode 5 Release Time and How to Watch in All Regions
Credits: Sources include Deadline, TVLine, Variety, and IMDb.
