‘Nashville’ Returns: When A Door Closes, The Show Opens Three Windows
Cue the sad songs – the Season 2 premiere of “Nashville” is more than just a recap of where it left off. It delved heavily into histories, drama, and showcased the biggest star of all, the city of Nashville itself.
We pick up right where the last season left off, with Rayna James and Deacon Claybourne bloodied and upside down in a ditch. Deacon wrestles his way out of the car as the couple’s past flashes back. He is showing a young, bright-eyed Rayna around the “dream home” he just bought for them, at the same time she’s nominated for her first CMA Award. You can really feel the refreshing sense of puppy love. Without giving away too many spoilers – Deacon is awake, locked up on DUI charges, while Rayna is laid up in a coma at a hospital. The duo’s love-struck past is revisited throughout the rest of the episode.
Also at the end of last season – Will Lexington was still trying to mend his relationship with Gunner Scott, after making a drunken move on him, while Gunner is left pining over the heartbreak between him and Scarlett O’Connor. Let’s just say, Will might be the best wingman and roomie ever.
Juliette Barnes first comes into the episode p.o.’d – not from the angst of losing her mother, but rather the country music “sainthood” that has befallen Rayna since the crash. Juliette worries Rayna’s stint in the hospital will upset her album sales. Like a true opportunist though, she spins her former tour partner’s coma and transforms herself into one of Ray-ray’s fans with a bleeding heart for her recovery.
One of the signature performances on the episode takes place at Nashville’s The Parthenon – a fitting tribute to the “Athens of the South.” Production of the show is expected to pump $40 million dollars into Nashville’s local economy, according to officials. It’s not all about the money either – minor roles and positions as extras are doled to the stellar people who live and work in Music City. The first season finale caught the attention of nearly 6 million viewers. Talk about great PR!
The first episode of the new season closed a few doors – like the baby that Peggy Kenter is carrying after getting busy with Teddy Conrad– but opened a load of windows. New character, Zoey, was even introduced. She is taking Scarlett’s place at The Blue Bird Cafe as she gets ready to embark on her music career with Rayna’s new label. No doubt, this season will follow several roads through the “forest of drama.”
Nashville returns next Wednesday at 10:00 PM EST on ABC. Word is a reality TV star comes onto the scene and threatens to bring down Juliette’s powerhouse career.
We’re happy “Nashville” is back! Are you?
