Nashville Mourns Jimmy Carter: Beloved WSM Entertainment Reporter Dies at 73
Nashville is mourning the loss of Jimmy Carter, a respected entertainment journalist who spent decades interviewing some of the biggest names in country music and Hollywood. Carter died on October 13, 2026, at the age of 73.
His passing was confirmed by his family and WSM Radio. According to his family, Carter passed away peacefully in his sleep. His death has prompted tributes from colleagues and members of Nashville’s entertainment community.
Jimmy Carter Built a Remarkable Broadcasting Career
Carter began his broadcasting journey as a teenager. At just 15 years old, he started training at a radio station, beginning a career that would span more than five decades.
He later moved into television journalism and became an executive producer at WSMV Channel 4 in Nashville. His work behind the scenes earned recognition, including an Emmy Award.
Carter also worked in Houston television before returning to Nashville, where he became a familiar face to viewers covering entertainment news.
Across two periods at WSMV, he spent a combined 21 years reporting on award shows, movie premieres, major music events, and the biggest stories from Music Row.
He Interviewed Dolly Parton, Garth Brooks, and Alan Jackson
Throughout his career, Carter spoke with some of the most recognizable names in entertainment.
His interview subjects included Dolly Parton, Garth Brooks, Alan Jackson, Clint Eastwood, Sylvester Stallone, and Kevin Costner.
His work took him beyond Nashville as well. He covered major entertainment events, including the Academy Awards in Hollywood and movie premieres in London.
Carter was known for his extensive industry connections and his ability to bring stories from the entertainment world to audiences at home.
His Connection to WSM Radio and Country Music
Beyond television, Carter remained closely connected to Nashville radio.
He contributed to WSM Radio’s Coffee, Country & Cody, where his knowledge of country music and relationships throughout the industry made him a respected voice.
WSM Radio remembered him as a trusted broadcaster, a gifted storyteller, and a friend to artists, listeners, and colleagues.
The station also highlighted his passion for country music and the warmth and humor he brought to his work.
Nashville Remembers a Familiar Voice
Carter’s death marks the loss of a journalist who documented generations of entertainment history.
For decades, he helped audiences connect with the artists and personalities behind the music and the headlines. His interviews and reporting brought fans closer to some of their favorite stars.
His family, friends, colleagues, and the many artists he interviewed are now remembering a career devoted to broadcasting and storytelling.
Jimmy Carter leaves behind a lasting legacy in Nashville’s media community, where his work helped tell the story of country music and the people who shaped it.
