Circle Country

Circle Country
Company type	Subsidiary
Industry	Streaming television
Founded	January 1, 2020; 6 years ago
Founder	Ryman Hospitality Properties (via Opry Entertainment Group)
Fate	Over-the-air broadcast discontinued December 31, 2023; continues as streaming platform
Headquarters	Nashville, United States
Area served	United States
Owner	Gray Media (through PowerNation Studios)
Parent	Gray Media

Circle Country, previously known simply as Circle, operates as a free ad-supported streaming television (FAST) platform owned by Gray Media through its PowerNation Studios branch. This channel specializes in country music-themed content, offering a mix of original productions and syndicated shows from Opry Entertainment Group, the proprietor of the Grand Ole Opry and former Gray Media joint venture collaborator.

Prior to 2024, Circle's distribution was primarily through digital subchannels on broadcast stations, alongside an ad-supported video-on-demand presence on Peacock and Stirr. It was also available nationally via Dish Network and Sling TV, with cable and IPTV providers delivering either the local affiliate or the national feed.

The over-the-air (OTA) broadcast service concluded on December 31, 2023, while Circle Country continues as a streaming platform. Numerous former OTA affiliates have replaced Circle with channels from the Gray/Lionsgate/Warner Bros. Discovery collaborative venture Free TV Networks, led by Jonathan Katz. Meanwhile, Opry programming rights are now utilized in new AVOD projects by Opry and NBCUniversal, which acquired a 30% stake in Opry Entertainment in 2022. Following the OTA discontinuation, Circle Network’s shows remain accessible through streaming on Circle Country.

Background

Circle Country represents the fourth television network initiative by Opry Entertainment Group. Between 1983 and 1997, its parent company—then known as Gaylord Entertainment Company (currently Ryman Hospitality Properties)—owned The Nashville Network (TNN). In 1991, Gaylord also acquired Country Music Television (CMT). Both networks were sold to CBS Cable in 1997 for $1.55 billion, as Gaylord anticipated that a larger media entity could accelerate their growth. However, Gaylord maintained ownership of CMT International and leveraged its interests in TV Argentina and CMT International to launch MusicCountry channels in Mexico and Argentina in 2000, followed by an expansion into Europe on September 1, 2000. Subsequently, Gaylord rebranded CMT outlets across Australia, Brazil, Indonesia, the Philippines, and the Asia-Pacific region under the MusicCountry name.

History

In the late 2010s, Ryman Hospitality Properties sought to re-establish its presence in television via its Opry Entertainment division, which had co-produced the series Nashville. As CMT and Great American Country shifted their focus from music to broader Southern lifestyle programming, Ryman identified an opportunity to serve country music enthusiasts more directly. Encouraged by favorable focus group feedback on test content in 2018, Ryman moved forward with plans to launch a broadcast network.

On April 24, 2019, Ryman partnered with Gray Television in a joint venture to debut a broadcast network in early 2020 alongside a later online streaming service. The channel’s lineup would highlight Grand Ole Opry archives and performances from venues owned by Ryman. By October 17, 2019, Gray Television confirmed its stations as founding affiliates and unveiled the network’s name as Circle—a nod to the iconic wooden circle stage section at both the Opry House and Ryman Auditorium where legendary country performers have appeared.

Circle officially launched on January 1, 2020, introducing 16 original programs. CBS Television Stations joined as initial affiliates, bringing the total launch footprint to 56 stations covering half of U.S. households. By October 2020, Circle had grown to include 99 affiliates reaching approximately 62.61% of American TV households.

On November 10, 2023, it was announced that Circle would discontinue its over-the-air broadcasts effective December 31, 2023, as Gray transitions to a new digital subchannel partnership involving Lionsgate and Warner Bros. Discovery under the Free TV Networks brand. The final OTA airing featured the film Rio Lobo. Circle remains available through streaming platforms with select titles such as Coffee, Country & Cody and Opry Live. Additionally, both Opry Live and The Song continue to be distributed via broadcast syndication.

Programming

In its earlier phase as an OTA sub-channel, Circle offered up to 20 hours of content on weekdays, running from 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 a.m. Eastern Time, and on weekends from 11:00 a.m. until 3:00 a.m., with the remaining time slots occupied by paid programming.

Aimed primarily at enthusiasts of country music and viewers in rural regions, Circle competed with multicast networks such as Heartland and The Country Network. Its schedule blended both original productions and acquired shows centered around country music and Southern culture.

The network previously maintained two separate feeds: a terrestrial channel broadcasting classic films and syndicated programming via digital subchannels associated with major network affiliates, and a digital feed accessible on streaming platforms like Peacock and Roku, which featured more proprietary music-related content. These two feeds merged during live broadcasts, including simulcasts of WSM Radio's "Coffee, Country & Cody" and Grand Ole Opry performances. By 2024, the terrestrial feed had been discontinued, while the streaming digital feed continued under the name Circle Country, incorporating classic movies alongside its original lineup.

Circle Media focused heavily on developing original content to set itself apart within the digital multicast landscape, joining networks such as the Live Well Network in prioritizing substantial original programming. On December 11, 2019, Circle Media revealed plans for 16 original series to debut within its initial five months. This slate included the simulcast of WSM Radio's Coffee, Country & Cody (which previously aired on Heartland) and the music-interview program The Dailey and Vincent Show, transitioned from RFD-TV. The lineup also featured documentary series like Craig's World, centered on country artist Craig Morgan, Fandom, which examines connections between artists and their fans, Upstream, a fishing/interview show hosted by Elizabeth Cook, along with several shows focused on the Grand Ole Opry, such as Opry Debut.

Among its initial offerings were all remaining episodes of Hee Haw.

Music/interview programming

Backstage at the Opry (January 1, 2020–present) – A documentary series following musicians as they prepare for their performances at the Grand Ole Opry.
Bluebird Café Sessions (February 2020–present) – A music program showcasing performances by both established and emerging country artists recorded at Nashville’s renowned Bluebird Café.
Coffee, Country & Cody (January 1, 2020–present) – A televised simulcast of the morning show from WSM Radio, hosted by Bill Cody alongside co-host Charlie Mattos and entertainment correspondent Kelly Sutton. Produced by Eric Marcum and broadcast live from WSM Radio’s studio located within the Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center.
The Dailey & Vincent Show (January 1, 2020–present) – A music series featuring bluegrass/country/gospel duo Jamie Dailey and Darrin Vincent, presenting solo performances as well as collaborations with notable country musicians.
Fandom (February 2020) – A documentary series exploring the dynamic between country performers and their fanbase.
Opry Live (February 2020–present) – One-hour episodes of the Grand Ole Opry, initially broadcast live in simulcast with WSM radio. Since 2021, these are generally pre-recorded live-to-tape episodes from Tuesday or Friday shows, allowing WSM to continue featuring traditional acts and audience participation segments.
My Opry Debut (January 1, 2020–present) – A documentary series highlighting up-and-coming country artists’ inaugural appearances at the Grand Ole Opry.
Opry Anniversary (January 1, 2020–present) – Documentary episodes showcasing country artists reminiscing about their debut performances at the Grand Ole Opry.
Austin City Limits: Country (June 8–August 17, 2022) – Hosted by singer-songwriter Rodney Crowell, this series features classic episodes of Austin City Limits with an emphasis on country music, complemented by behind-the-scenes footage and exclusive interviews.
Opry Docs (January 1, 2020–present) – A documentary series presented by contemporary artists chronicling the careers of legendary country musicians.
Phil Vassar's Songs from the Cellar (January 2, 2020–present) – A music and interview program hosted by Phil Vassar, featuring conversations with artists, songwriters, entertainers, athletes, and wine aficionados within his personal wine cellar setting.
The Write Stuff (January 7, 2020–present) – Documentary series focusing on the songwriting process behind some of country music’s most iconic compositions.

Lifestyle and Entertainment Programming

Authentic America (airing since January 2, 2020) – Hosted by seasoned television personality Nan Kelley alongside country musician Charlie Kelley, this series explores hidden gems across the United States, including unique dining spots and fascinating individuals.
Bellamy Brothers' Honky Tonk Ranch (premiered January 1, 2020) – A reality show documenting the lives of country music duo David and Howard Bellamy, focusing on their musical journey and ranch lifestyle.
Better Half (since January 2, 2020) – A documentary-style series following the lives of spouses connected to country music and NASCAR celebrities.
Craig's World (from February 2020 onward) – This docu-series offers insight into Craig Morgan’s balancing act between his career in music, entrepreneurial ventures, and family life.
Family Traditions (debuted February 2020) – Showcasing the stories of descendants belonging to iconic country music legends.
Southern Weekend (broadcasting since January 2, 2020) – A travel-focused program highlighting attractions throughout the Southern United States, hosted by Natalie Stovall.
Stand Up Nashville! (on air since January 3, 2020) – A stand-up comedy series filmed at Zanies Comedy Club situated in downtown Nashville.
Upstream (launching May 2020) – A fishing-themed show hosted by Elizabeth Cook, featuring interviews with country artists at various angling destinations.

Affiliates

Circle has established affiliation agreements with 96 television stations spanning 39 states, reaching approximately 62.60% of U.S. households equipped with television. Additionally, the network streams live on NBC’s platform Peacock (streaming service) and is accessible via Vizio’s Free Streaming Channels service for current-generation smart TV devices.

In preparation for its launch, Circle Media focused on securing extensive affiliation partnerships to maximize nationwide reach. The network commenced operations with clearance covering at least half of American television households. This was achieved through collaborations with co-owner Gray Television—providing access to 56 of its stations—and CBS Television Stations, which enabled presence in the top 25 U.S. media markets including New York City, Los Angeles, Philadelphia, San Francisco, Boston, the Miami–Fort Lauderdale area, and the Dallas–Fort Worth region.

Although initially lacking an over-the-air presence in its home city of Nashville, Circle added a digital subchannel on WSMV-TV as of January 31, 2020. Notably, WSMV-TV has historical ties to Ryman's Opry properties and was briefly affiliated with Heartland network’s predecessor. Gray Television completed its acquisition of WSMV’s parent company, the Meredith Corporation, on December 1, 2021.

Media market	State	Station	Channel	Launch date
Birmingham	Alabama	WBRC	6.3	January 1, 2020
Huntsville		WAFF	48.3	January 1, 2020
Mobile		WALA	10.5	February 7, 2020
Montgomery		WSFA	12.3	January 1, 2020
Anchorage	Alaska	KAUU	5.3	January 1, 2020
Phoenix	Arizona	KTVK	3.3	February 1, 2020
Tucson	Arizona	KOLD-TV	13.3	January 1, 2020
Little Rock	Arkansas	KTHV	11.5
Bakersfield	California	KERO-TV	23.7
Los Angeles		KCAL-TV	9.3	January 1, 2020
San Francisco		KPYX	44.5	January 1, 2020

(Note: The table continues listing affiliates nationwide; details omitted here for brevity.)

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