Monarch: release date, plot and cast for the new star-studded country music drama starring Susan Sarandon, Shania Twain and more

Giddy up for Monarch, sure to be one of the most talked about new television shows debuting this fall.

With summer slowly dwindling away, the silver lining for the turn of the seasons is looking forward to the new line-up of big television shows.

All the major networks usually launch some of their biggest series during the fall season, hoping to create the next big hit, and for Fox, that could very well be Monarch.

Touted as a mix between Empire and Nashville, this star-studded country music drama looks set to hit all the right notes when it debuts next month.

Here’s what we know about the series so far…

What is Monarch about?

Evocative of Empire, the hit series which followed a tycoon in the music industry, Monarch focuses on a family dynasty in the country music scene.

The Roman family are widely regarded as the reigning figureheads in the industry, but there’s secrets which threaten to disrupt everything as newcomers also enter the arena.

The official synopsis of the show reads, "Monarch is an epic, multi-generational musical drama about America’s first family of country music. In Monarch, the Romans are passionate and fiercely talented, but while their name is synonymous with honesty, the very foundation of this family's success is a lie.”

“When dangerous truths bubble to the surface, the Romans’ reign as country royalty is put in jeopardy. Nicky Roman, the brilliant and fierce heir to the crown, already battling an industry and world stacked against her, will stop at nothing to protect her family's legacy. It’s finally her turn. But is it too late?"

Who is in the cast of Monarch?

While Monarch sounds like it has a gripping plot, the real draw for many will be its prestigious cast.

The series is fronted by Academy Award winning icon, Susan Sarandon.

The Oscar winning star of hits like Thelma and Louise and the Rocky Horror Picture Show will play Dottie Cantrell Roman, the matriarch of the Roman family and who is widely regarded as the queen of country music.

Monarch’s other leading lady is Anna Friel, who is playing the role of Nicolette Roman, who attempts takes the reins when the family’s legacy is threatened.

She is best known for her role on Pushing Daisies.

American country music singer and actor Trace Adkins plays Albie Roman, with Joshua Sasse, Beth Ditto and Meagan Holder also rounding out the cast.

Real country music stars are set to guest star throughout Monarch, including Shania Twain, Martina McBride, Little Big Town and Tanya Tucker.

Monarch trailer

What is the release date for Monarch on Fox?

Monarch debuts on Fox on Sunday, September 11. It will debut with a special presentation following the NFL on Fox across all time zones.

It will then move to Tuesday nights as of September 20 at 9pm ET/PT.

Airing on Fox, Monarch will be available to all US TV viewers with a traditional cable or satellite service.

All new episodes of Monarch will also be available to stream the next day on Hulu.