9-1-1: Nashville is quickly becoming one of the most highly-anticipated new shows of the 2025-26 television cycle, but one concerning pattern could set the spinoff up for failure. The third title in Ryan Murphy’s first-responder franchise has already had difficulty, as many believed 9-1-1: Lone Star could sabotage Nashville due to their similar settings. With so little revealed about the upcoming spinoff, signs pointed to 9-1-1: Nashville being nothing more than ABC’s replacement for the previous Texas-based series.
As more details emerge, however, it becomes increasingly clear that 9-1-1: Nashville has a unique vision for its pilot season. 9-1-1: Nashville’s cast of characters is already stacked with recognizable names like Chris O’Donnell (Don Sharpe), Jessica Capshaw (Blythe Sharpe), and iconic musicians like LeAnn Rimes. Unfortunately, while 9-1-1: Nashville will certainly have its own identity separate from its predecessors, the past year of network television has proven that isn’t enough for a spinoff to succeed.
If you’re like me, you probably got a little giddy when you heard that 9-1-1: Nashville was in the works. A brand-new city, fresh faces, and a new layer of drama in the beloved 9-1-1 franchise? Sign me up. But the more I thought about it, the more I started feeling a pit in my stomach. Not because the show won’t be good—it probably will be—but because network TV has been on a slow, disappointing decline. And this trend? It’s exactly why I’m worried about 9-1-1: Nashville ever having a real shot.
What’s Going On With Network TV?
The Ratings Are In… And They’re Falling Fast
The truth hurts: network TV ratings have been in a freefall for the past decade. We’re not talking a small dip—we’re talking about a nosedive. People are cutting the cord, streaming everything, and spending less time flipping through channels.
Too Many Shows, Not Enough Support
Networks keep launching spin-offs and franchise extensions, hoping lightning will strike twice. But instead of giving these new shows room to grow, they’re tossed into competitive time slots with little promotion.
Scheduling Nightmares Are Killing Great Shows
Ever fall in love with a show only to find out it’s been moved to a new time—or worse, a new night—without warning? Welcome to modern network TV, where even the most promising series struggle to find footing thanks to erratic scheduling.
Why 9-1-1: Nashville Might Be in Trouble
It’s Hard to Stand Out in a Saturated Market
There’s no denying the 9-1-1 franchise is strong, but launching another spin-off means it has to fight for attention—against itself, no less. And if the network doesn’t put its full weight behind it, how can it possibly compete?
Viewers Are Burned Out on Spin-Offs
Think of it like movie sequels. Sometimes you get The Dark Knight, but other times? You end up with a cash-grab no one asked for. Audiences are smart, and they’re tired of more-of-the-same content.
Trust Issues With The Network
Let’s be honest—network execs don’t exactly have the best track record when it comes to nurturing shows. Too often, promising series are canceled after one season, and viewers are left high and dry. That’s not good for anyone.
The Streaming Factor
Streaming Giants Are Stealing the Spotlight
It’s hard to compete with platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Prime Video. They’ve got the budgets, the creative freedom, and the viewer loyalty that networks can only dream of.
Delayed Viewing Isn’t Counted Properly
A lot of people watch shows days—or even weeks—after they air live. But traditional ratings systems still weigh heavily on same-day numbers, which can make a solid show look like a flop.
The Importance of Smart Promotion
A Weak Marketing Push Equals a Weak Start
If 9-1-1: Nashville isn’t marketed properly, most people won’t even know it exists. That’s a death sentence in today’s crowded entertainment landscape.
Social Media Engagement Can Make or Break It
Today’s shows live and die by their online presence. If the cast and crew aren’t actively engaging fans on platforms like Instagram and TikTok, they risk getting lost in the noise.
Content Quality Still Matters—A Lot
Will It Bring Something New to the Table?
9-1-1: Nashville has to offer more than just a new zip code. Viewers want layered characters, fresh storylines, and the emotional punch that made the original series a hit.
High Stakes, High Drama
Disaster scenes, emotional rescues, and character arcs that hit home—if the show leans into what made 9-1-1 great, it has a chance. But if it plays it safe? Game over.
The Fanbase Factor
Die-Hard Fans Will Tune In—But For How Long?
Sure, fans of the original shows will give Nashville a try. But if it doesn’t hook them quickly, they won’t stick around. That’s just the reality of today’s fast-paced content world.
Franchise Fatigue Is Real
Even loyal fans can get tired. Too many spin-offs can dilute a brand, especially if they feel forced or repetitive. The writing and direction need to feel fresh.
Behind the Scenes: Network Interference
Creative Control Could Be Compromised
Networks often interfere with storylines, character development, and pacing. If the showrunners aren’t given room to breathe, we could end up with a watered-down version of what 9-1-1: Nashville should be.
How 9-1-1: Nashville Can Beat the Odds
Put It in a Strong Time Slot
Give it a spot where it’s not up against major ratings giants. Ideally, pair it with one of the other 9-1-1 shows to capture crossover audiences.
Invest in Marketing and Buzz-Building
Give it a real promo campaign, utilize the power of social media influencers, and make the premiere feel like an event.
Focus on Quality Storytelling
Get the best writers, cast dynamic actors, and don’t be afraid to take creative risks. That’s how you build a legacy—not just another short-lived spin-off.
What Fans Can Do to Help
Watch Live (If You Can)
Ratings still matter. The more people tune in live, the better the chances of survival.
Stream, Share, and Talk About It
Every tweet, every TikTok, every Reddit thread helps keep the show in the conversation.
Conclusion: Hopeful But Realistic
So yeah, I’m excited for 9-1-1: Nashville. I really am. But I’m also wary. We’ve seen too many great shows cut down before they could even grow. The current network TV landscape isn’t built for long-term success unless real changes are made.
If 9-1-1: Nashville is going to survive—and thrive—it needs a smarter rollout, stronger support from the network, and real, honest engagement with the fans. Here’s hoping it gets all three.
