Nashville is coming back, and here's some visual proof that it's really, actually happening: CMT, a.k.a. the show's new home, has not only released the first trailer for season five—the network has also decided to give you an early Christmas present and air the first half of the premiere a full three weeks before its official CMT debut.
Yes, you're allowed to cry tears of joy right now, we won't tell anyone. Just be sure to compose yourself enough to set your DVR for Thursday, Dec. 15 at 9 p.m., when you'll be able to watch the first half of the show's two-hour season five premiere.
If that's not enough good news, the first trailer for the new season features never-before-seen footage from season five. After a quick recap of where we left off when the show aired its season four finale on ABC (and was subsequently canceled before CMT rescued it)—Scarlett and Gunnar's romantic woes, Will being beaten up, Maddie declaring her emancipation, Rayna and Deacon finally tying the knot, and of course Juliette's epic plane crash cliffhanger—we finally see some new clips.
Of course, they're not the most promising if you're looking for your favorite characters to have happily ever afters. Rayna and Deacon are fighting, Scarlett and Gunnar are fighting, and Juliette is terrified on a private plane. (Not to spoil anything, though you should've assumed this since we know Hayden Panettiere is back, but we also see Juliette with a new potential love interest. Poor Avery!)
According to CMT, "the season begins with Rayna and Deacon facing a new normal with Maddie now back home and Highway 65 struggling financially. The shocking news about Juliette creates a wave of emotions throughout Nashville, and sets Rayna off on a journey of discovery."
Check out the clip above for the new footage. Nashville's full two-hour premiere will air on Thursday, Jan. 5 at 9 p.m. on CMT. The new season is produced by Lionsgate, ABC Studios and Opry Entertainment, and will be available the day after air on Hulu. (And if you want to catch up, the first four seasons are there right now!)