Deadline reports that Kazee will play Riff. The character is described thus: "Ten years ago, Riff was a country music star at the top of his game: No. 1 hits, platinum albums and sold-out tours. This good old boy from Arkansas enjoyed the thrills of fame – partying and women – and acquired a legion of loyal fans, captivated by his genuine sound and authentic storytelling. However, everything changed when Riff met Heidi, a Southern beauty with a budding musical career of her own. He fell head over boots in love and chose what none of his contemporaries was willing to do – leave it all behind – farm over fortune, the family over fame. Riff and Heidi would join the show’s leading music couple, Rayna and Deacon."

Kazee is scheduled to make his debut on the show in  early 2016.

Kazee won a Tony Award and a Grammy Award for his performance as Guy in Once. He has also appeared on Broadway in Spamalot, Seascape, 110 in the Shade and To Be or Not To Be.