Chris O’Donnell Set to Star in ABC’s Upcoming “9-1-1: Nashville” Spinoff
Exciting news has emerged for fans of procedural dramas and the 9-1-1 franchise! Chris O’Donnell, a familiar face in television and film, has been cast in a lead role for ABC’s highly anticipated spinoff series, 9-1-1: Nashville. This new installment in the 9-1-1 universe is set to premiere during the 2025-2026 broadcast season, and while details about the plot are still limited, the show promises to delve into the lives of first responders in the vibrant city of Nashville, Tennessee. O’Donnell will step into the role of Captain Don Sharpe, a character described as a rugged fire captain and rodeo rider who runs the city’s busiest firehouse alongside his son. Don is also portrayed as a devoted husband and family man, but with secrets that hint at a more complex personality.
This marks O’Donnell’s second major starring role in a TV procedural spinoff, following his long-standing role as G. Callen in the CBS series NCIS: Los Angeles. That show ran for an impressive 14 seasons and over 300 episodes before concluding in 2023. O’Donnell’s versatility as an actor has allowed him to explore a wide range of roles throughout his career. His television credits include appearances in Grey’s Anatomy, Bupkis, and The Company, while his film career boasts notable performances in Batman Forever, Batman & Robin, Scent of a Woman, The Chamber, and Fried Green Tomatoes. His ability to transition seamlessly between drama and action has endeared him to audiences and made him a sought-after talent in the entertainment industry.
The casting of O’Donnell in 9-1-1: Nashville is a significant move for the franchise, which has already seen success with its Texas-based spinoff, 9-1-1: Lone Star, starring Rob Lowe. That series concluded its five-season run in early February 2024, leaving fans eager for the next chapter in the 9-1-1 universe. Created by Ryan Murphy, Brad Falchuk, and Tim Minear, the original 9-1-1 series premiered on Fox in 2018 and became a massive hit, known for its high-stakes storytelling and emotional depth. The show moved to ABC for its seventh season in 2024, with Season 8 currently airing. The franchise’s ability to expand while maintaining its core themes of heroism, family, and resilience has been a key factor in its enduring popularity.
9-1-1: Nashville is being executive produced by a powerhouse team, including Ryan Murphy, Angela Bassett (who also stars in the original 9-1-1 series), Tim Minear, and Rashad Raisani. The involvement of these creators ensures that the spinoff will maintain the same level of quality and emotional engagement that fans have come to expect from the franchise. The show will be produced by 20th Television, where Murphy is currently under an overall deal, further solidifying the project’s pedigree. With such a strong creative team in place, 9-1-1: Nashville is poised to carve out its own unique identity while staying true to the spirit of its predecessors.
Chris O’Donnell’s involvement in the project is likely to draw in both longtime fans of the franchise and new viewers familiar with his work. His portrayal of Captain Don Sharpe, a multifaceted character with both professional and personal challenges, offers a compelling narrative to explore. As a family man with secrets, Don’s story has the potential to resonate deeply with audiences, adding another layer of complexity to the show’s ensemble-driven storytelling. With O’Donnell at the helm, 9-1-1: Nashville is shaping up to be a must-watch series for anyone who loves gripping dramas, heartfelt moments, and the heroism of first responders.
As the 9-1-1 franchise continues to grow, Nashville represents a fresh chapter in its storytelling legacy. By setting the series in a new city with a rich cultural landscape, the show has the opportunity to introduce new characters, explore different themes, and showcase the unique challenges faced by first responders in Nashville. With Chris O’Donnell leading the charge, the series is set to captivate audiences with its blend of action, drama, and heart. Stay tuned for more updates as 9-1-1: Nashville gears up for its 2025-2026 premiere—it’s sure to be a thrilling ride!
