Nashville reporter Jimmy Carter dies at 73 after decades interviewing music and film stars

Nashville entertainment reporter Jimmy Carter, known for interviewing Dolly Parton and Clint Eastwood, died aged 73

Jimmy Carter, the Nashville entertainment reporter known for interviewing country music stars and Hollywood actors, has died aged 73.

His family confirmed his death, with his granddaughter Kira Sparks saying he passed away in his sleep on Tuesday, October 13.

In a statement shared after his death, Sparks wrote, “We received the news today that my grandfather, Jimmy Carter, passed in his sleep.”

She also paid tribute to his family, adding, “He leaves behind three daughters who loved him deeply, five grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.”

A medical cause of death had not been publicly announced in reports published on Wednesday, and funeral arrangements had yet to be confirmed.

Carter grew up in Montgomery, Alabama, and developed an interest in radio at a young age before building a career in Nashville.

He became a familiar presence at award ceremonies, red-carpet events and gatherings around Music Row, interviewing performers and actors throughout his career.

He spent a total of 21 years working at WSMV Channel 4. His first stint lasted six years during the 1980s, before he returned to the station for another 15 years between 2003 and 2018.

Beyond television, Carter also contributed to WSM Radio and the nationally syndicated country entertainment programme Crook & Chase.

His interview subjects included Dolly Parton, Alan Jackson, Garth Brooks, Clint Eastwood, Sylvester Stallone and Kevin Costner.

According to WSMV, Carter received several professional honours during his career, including duPont-Columbia and Edward R. Murrow awards.

Following news of his death, WSM Radio paid tribute to the broadcaster and its former colleague.

“Today, we lost a dear friend and a cherished member of the WSM family,” the station said.

It also remembered Carter as a trusted source and gifted broadcaster who built lasting connections with artists, listeners and colleagues.

His career spanned local television, radio and nationally syndicated entertainment programming, establishing him as a recognisable figure in Nashville’s music and entertainment industry.