ABC's new musical drama Nashville has been critically lauded and received good ratings, especially in the coveted 18-49 demographic. It marks the return of beloved actress Connie Britton (Friday Night Lights, American Horror Story) and another great role for young star Hayden Panettiere (Heroes). Plus, it features strong female characters as its leads, something that's hard to come by on TV.
With all these things going for it, it's no wonder that ABC has picked up the show for a full season. The series will join ABC shows The Neighbors and Scandal in completing full seasons.
The series, about country singers in the title city, features musical numbers by producer T-Bone Burnett. The presence of musical performances draws comparison to fellow music shows Glee and Smash, on FOX and NBC, respectively. It leads to the question of whether Nashville can sustain its first season highs if it's renewed. Some have complained that Glee has lost the charm of its first year and become preachy and saccharine, while Smash went sour in its first season.
Maybe Nashville can prove that musical series can be successful and enduring without falling flat or losing steam. ABC seems to want to give it a chance. [Indiewire]