Smash

Celebrating the beauty and heartbreak of the Broadway theater, following a cross section of dreamers and schemers who all have one common desire - to be a "Smash."

Smash (2012-2013) is an American network musical drama series created by Theresa Rebeck for NBC. Set in contemporary New York City, the story follows the development of a new Broadway musical about Marilyn Monroe, with the songs performed as full stage numbers. Ambitious small-town songwriter Karen Cartwright (Katharine McPhee) and seasoned Broadway veteran Ivy Lynn (Megan Hilty) compete for the lead role, while producer Julia Houston (Debra Messing) and her writing partner Tom Levitt (Christian Borle) struggle to keep the production alive. Director Derek Wills (Jack Davenport) and the show's financial backers pull the creative team in conflicting directions, and rehearsal rooms, auditions, and opening-night pressure form the backbone of each episode. Across two seasons of serialized storytelling, the series balances romance, rivalry, and career heartbreak with glossy musical showpieces. Its tone is melodramatic and glossy, with a sincere love for theater and an aspirational pull toward stardom. Viewers who enjoy Glee, Nashville, and Episodes will find resonance in its backstage ambition and musical performance.

Audiences found the series' Broadway backstage drama and musical numbers appealing in its second season after a weak first season.

• Gleebackstage show business drama, musical performance, aspiring performers chasing stardom
• Nashvillebehind the scenes theater and creative ambition, soapy interpersonal drama
• Episodesambitious creators battling for a hit, showbiz rivalry and romance

Created by

Theresa Rebeck

Release Date

2012-02-06

Episode runtime

44 min

Rating

7.7 / 10 (79)

What is Smash about?

Two ambitious women vie for the lead in a new Broadway musical as the show's creators fight to bring it to the stage.

What is Smash like to watch?

Ember's analysis rates the pacing of Smash as brisk, its intensity as moderate and its storytelling as easy to follow.

Is Smash violent?

No — Ember's analysis finds no violence in Smash.

What did critics think of Smash?

Audiences found the series' Broadway backstage drama and musical numbers appealing in its second season after a weak first season.

Which shows are like Smash?

Shows with a similar feel include Glee, Nashville, and Episodes.

How long is Smash?

Smash: 2 seasons, 32 episodes.

Is Smash still running?

No, Smash was canceled.

Where can I watch Smash?

In United States, Smash streams on Amazon Prime Video, BroadwayHD, Amazon Prime Video with Ads, Broadway HD Amazon Channel.