Fans felt conflicting emotions when CMT announced "Nashville" season 5 will have a new home. After ABC's cancellation, "Nashville" season 5 will continue to air brand new episodes next year. However, fans may be in for a big shock as two major deaths are hinted to happen in the upcoming season. Will this include fan-favorite Layla and Luke?
Who Won't Return For 'Nashville' Season 5?
"Nashville" season 5 may see the departure of Layla Grant (Aubrey Peeples) according to earlier reports from Cinemablend. While Layla had a recurring role and became a regular one in season 4, there are speculations that she may be written off in "Nashville" season 5.
Her appearance in the first season was marked with hatred from Juliette. After which, her story lines in "Nashville" appeared forced in the past seasons.
"Nashville" season 5 also established that Layla Grant isn't an integral part of the show. For one, she isn't one of the most likable characters on the show. Especially after learning that Juliette was trying to kill herself when Jeff died, most fans feel animosity towards Layla.
Aside from Layla, there are also speculations that Luke Wheeler (Will Chase) will follow suit. Most fans feel that Luke has no important story arc in "Nashville" season 5. Much like Layla, he's one of the recurring characters, who first appeared in season 2. Luke's story started to go downhill right after his engagement with Rayna was called off.
TV Line has learned exclusively that both characters won't appear in "Nashville" season 5. It seems that their storylines are pretty much coming to a close. However, no confirmation has been made by CMT or the series creator.
Who Will Return To 'Nashville' Season 5?
While Layla and Luke are rumored to depart "Nashville" season 5, reports from Entertainment Weekly revealed that Hayden Panettiere will mark her return on January 5. In a new promo for the upcoming season, Connie Britton and Charles Esten will return along Panettiere. The actress left the series last season to treat for postpartum depression.
Brand new episodes of "Nashville" season 5 will air on January 5, 2017, on CMT at 9 p.m. ET/PT. Check out the first look of "Nashville" season 5 below.