"9-1-1: Nashville" makes Music City the backdrop for drama, outlandish emergencies
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Actor Chris O'Donnell plays a firefighter in "9-1-1: Nashville," which filmed on location. Photo: Disney/Jake Giles Netter
Music City is returning to primetime Thursday with the series premiere of "9-1-1: Nashville," a drama featuring first responders contending with soapy drama and over-the-top emergencies.
Why it matters: Nashville's previous turn in a network drama (the country-tinged "Nashville") supercharged city tourism. State and local officials hope the new show will be similarly successful.
Between the lines: "This kind of national and international exposure is invaluable," Nashville Convention & Visitors Corp head Deana Ivey said in a statement.
- "It's a powerful way to introduce Music City to new audiences and reinforces Nashville's reputation as a must-visit destination."
What we're watching: Like "Nashville," this drama filmed on-location, using real-life backdrops for larger-than-life scenarios.
- Filming is ongoing in the Nashville area and should continue into 2026, according to the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development.
By the numbers: The state projects the production will create more than 600 jobs, with a broader economic impact of more than $50 million.
State of play: "9-1-1: Nashville" is the second spinoff in producer Ryan Murphy's "9-1-1" universe, in which beautiful police officers, firefighters and paramedics respond to outlandish disasters.
- The main "9-1-1" series, which is set in Los Angeles, featured characters battling a "bee-nado."
What they're saying: Producers and stars are promising more of the same in Nashville.
- The first episode features tornadoes and a runaway pedal tavern full of bachelorettes.
- "We've got firenados, we've got lightning, we've got all sorts of stuff," star Chris O'Donnell said, per TV Line. "There have been a couple of times where I've read a script and been like, 'They can't be serious here.'"
Fun fact: The show hoisted an Airstream trailer on top of the Korean Veterans Bridge this summer for a stunt showing the fall-out of a fictional tornado.
- The real Nashville police department issued a bulletin assuring residents it was not an actual emergency.
Zoom in: The show features a Nashville-friendly supporting cast, including singer LeAnn Rimes playing a firefighter's mother and Kimberly Williams-Paisley as a 911 dispatcher.
- Thursday's episode will feature a cameo from country hitmaker Kane Brown.
How to watch: "9-1-1: Nashville" airs 8pm Central Thursday on ABC, with on-demand streaming starting Friday on Hulu.