The stellar cast of "Nashville" will get even bigger when it returns for its fifth season. Recently, it was confirmed that singer, songwriter and actress Bridgit Mendler will join the cast of "Nashville" season 5.

CMT confirmed that Mendler will join next season to portray a recurring character, Ashley Wilkenson. The role is described as an exceptionally artistic, self-assured, young and beautiful YouTube sensation whose personality resembles that of Mendler in real life.

In real life, Mendler is successful in her career as a musician. In 2012, she released her first album "Hello, My Name Is..." Currently, her new album is already in the works and is set to be released soon.  Among her numerous television credits are her roles in NBC's comedy series "Undateable" and sitcom "Good Luck Charlie."

The "Nashville" team is currently busy filming for season 5. This was revealed recently on the show's official Twitter account, where photos showing some of its cast members during a table reading were posted. Some fans noticed that none of the photos included Connie Britton and Hayden Penettiere, leading to speculations that the two actors might say goodbye to the series soon. However, some consider the possibility that the episode being filmed in the photos simply did not require their characters. Also, Connie Britton previously revealed that she had only agreed to appear in a limited number of episodes next season.

As of this writing, CMT has not yet given any definite date yet for the "Nashville" season 5 premiere.