Director of Communications
Amanda.Murphy@tn.gov
615-741-9010
Senior Communications Manager
Jill.Kilgore@tn.gov
615-927-1320
Communications Manager
Chelsea.Trott@tn.gov
629-395-8941
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Charles Esten, renowned actor, singer and songwriter and current star of the hit CMT’s Nashville, came face to face with his detailed wax figure during a special charity event Oct. 19 at Hard Rock Cafe Nashville.
Esten was on hand to support Karaoke for a Cure created by his Team Addie, which raised funds for The Leukaemia and Lymphoma Society. This event served as a kick-off to the Light the Night Tennessee event on Oct. 20.
“My daughter, Addie is herself a leukemia survivor,” said Esten. “She has been healthy and cancer-free for over 15 beautiful years, and this summer helped her Tennessee Soccer Club team win the U18 National Championship! She is why I am honored to represent The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society and help raise more funds for the life-saving research and patient family services LLS provides.”
The wax figure depicts the star as his beloved character Deacon Clayborn from the hit show Nashville and is dressed in an iconic ‘Deacon’ costume that was donated direct from the shows costume department. A replica of his actual guitar was created along with his custom signature ‘Deacon’ leather guitar strap. Completing the guitar are also the specially created guitar picks which have ‘Rayna’ etched to ensure an authentic look.
Esten met with the talented team of artists in May 2016, who flew over from London to White Avenue Studios in Nashville for the sitting. Hundreds of photos and measurements were taken during a two-hour sitting to ensure an authentic representation in wax.
“I am completely bowled over – I never thought in a million years that I would someday be in a Madame Tussauds attraction,” said Esten. “The figure is absolutely incredible – down to the last detail. It just shows the power that the show has, and this Figure really is a testament to the amazing fans we have. I definitely would not have a wax Deacon without their love and support.”
The figure is displayed within a specially created Bluebird Cafe setting within the attraction in Opry Mills, and is accompanied along with the Figure of Rayna Jaymes, played by Connie Britton.
About Madame Tussauds Nashville
Madame Tussauds Nashville attraction is a new interactive wax experience where guests have the unique opportunity to get up close and personal with some of the world's biggest musical icons. Built to honor Music City and its deep roots into America’s history, Madame Tussauds will host visitors from across the globe as they enjoy a historical walk through America’s musical past and present with vivid scenes supporting the colorful cast of figures. Conveniently located within Opry Mills Mall across the street from the Grand Ole Opry.
For more information, visit www.madametussauds.com/nashville.
About Merlin Entertainments plc
Merlin Entertainments plc is a global leader in location based, family entertainment. As Europe's Number 1 and the world's second-largest visitor attraction operator, Merlin now operates over 100 attractions, 13 hotels and 5 holiday villages in 24 countries and across 4 continents. The company aims to deliver memorable experiences to its more than 60 million visitors worldwide, through its iconic global and local brands, and the commitment and passion of its c.27,000 employees (peak season). Visit www.merlinentertainments.biz for more information.
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Director of Communications
Amanda.Murphy@tn.gov
615-741-9010
Senior Communications Manager
Jill.Kilgore@tn.gov
615-927-1320
Communications Manager
Chelsea.Trott@tn.gov
629-395-8941