Jimmy Carter, a longtime Nashville entertainment reporter and broadcaster who spent decades covering country music and interviewing some of its biggest stars, has died at the age of 73.
Carter died in his sleep on October 13, 2026, according to his family. His death came just two days before his 74th birthday. No cause of death had been publicly disclosed as of October 14.
He became a familiar face in Nashville through his work at WSMV Channel 4, where he spent a total of 21 years across two periods. He worked at the television station for six years in the 1980s before returning in 2003 for a run that lasted until 2018.
Throughout his career, Carter interviewed leading figures in country music, including Dolly Parton, Garth Brooks and Alan Jackson. His reporting also brought him into contact with Hollywood actors such as Clint Eastwood, Sylvester Stallone and Kevin Costner.
Beyond television, Carter was involved in Nashville radio and worked on Coffee, Country & Cody on WSM Radio. He also served as a correspondent for the nationally syndicated country music programme Crook & Chase.
Even after stepping away from regular television reporting, he continued sharing entertainment news and stories with audiences online, maintaining a connection with fans and the wider music community.
Tributes from former colleagues highlighted his warmth, professionalism and ability to build relationships with artists and industry figures.
Carter’s granddaughter, Kira Sparks, confirmed his death, while former colleagues remembered him as a valued friend whose contribution extended beyond reporting on country music.
