According to the The Hollywood Reporter ,ABC has officially cast Chris O’Donnell (NCIS: Los Angeles , Scent of Woman). The network greenlit the first responder drama with a straight-to-series order in February, with the show set to premiere during the 2025-26 season. O’Donnell will portray Capt. Don Sharpe, a fire captain and rodeo rider who oversees Nashville’s busiest firehouse alongside his son. The character is a devoted family man, yet holds some secrets. “I’m excited to dive into the complex world of first responders with such a multifaceted character,” O’Donnell said in a statement to The Hollywood Reporter.
The 911 franchise continues its expansion with this new series, which will join the flagship 911 and its spinoff 911: Lone Star on ABC. O’Donnell’s role in 911: Nashville marks his first major TV role since NCIS: Los Angeles wrapped in 2023. “Capt. Sharpe’s complex character will push me in new and exciting ways,” O’Donnell shared in a statement. The show is a collaborative effort from 20th Television and Ryan Murphy (Glee, American Horror Story) Television, with Murphy, Tim Minear (The Inside, Feud) and Rashad Raisani (Allegiance, Burn Notice) serving as writers and executive producers. According to The Hollywood Reporter, “ideas for a third series in the 911 franchise had been floating around for several months, with Las Vegas considered as a possible setting.”
Before NCIS: Los Angeles, O’Donnell appeared in notable guest roles, including his part on Grey’s Anatomy and recently guest-starred on Peacock’s Bupkis alongside Pete Davidson. His career also spans iconic films such as Vertical Limit and The Three Musketeers , showcasing his range in both action and drama. “Chris has the ideal mix of strength, vulnerability, and intensity to bring Capt. Sharpe to life,” said Minear, 911: Nashville’s showrunner, in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter.
911: Nashville marks the next chapter in ABC’s expanding 911 universe, following the successful run of 911: Lone Star, which concluded its five-season run in February. This new series will offer a fresh setting and compelling storylines, keeping the intense action and heart of the 911 brand. As O’Donnell steps into this role, fans can expect high stakes, deep character arcs, and the dynamic storytelling that the franchise is known for.
With 911: Nashville in the works, ABC is poised to deliver a fresh take on the successful franchise. O’Donnell’s portrayal of Capt. Don Sharpe will undoubtedly bring a compelling new dimension to the series, as the show explores the challenges faced by first responders in Nashville.