Smash (2012)
NBC's bold Broadway drama where rival performers, driven writers, and ruthless producers chase the spotlight in pursuit of a single dream.
Smash - Series Information
- Original Title: Smash
- First Air Year: 2012
- Last Air Year: 2013
- Created by: Theresa Rebeck
- Type: TV Series
- Genres: Drama
- Content Rating (US): TV-14
- Number of Seasons: 2
- Number of Episodes: 32
- Status: Canceled
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- First Air Date: February 6, 2012 (United States - NR), February 6, 2012 (Germany - 16), February 6, 2012 (France - 12), February 6, 2012 (Australia - M), February 6, 2012 (Spain - 13)
- Networks: NBC
- Production Companies: DreamWorks Television, Universal Television, Madwoman in the Attic
- Production Countries: United States of America
Smash - Plot
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 - Trailer
Watch the official trailer and get your first look at the drama unfolding behind Broadway's curtain:
Follow your dream. Watch your back.
Where to Watch Smash
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Smash - Cast & Crew
Creator(s)
- Theresa Rebeck
Main Cast
- Katharine McPhee
- Megan Hilty
- Jack Davenport
- Debra Messing
- Christian Borle
- Anjelica Huston
- Savannah Wise
- Wesley Taylor
- Brian d'Arcy James
- Ann Harada
Writers
- Theresa Rebeck
- Julie Rottenberg
- Elisa Zuritsky
- Joshua Safran
- Julia Brownell
Executive Producers
- Darryl Frank
- Steven Spielberg
- Justin Falvey
- Craig Zadan
- David Marshall Grant
Smash - FAQs
Who plays Karen and Ivy in Smash?
Karen Cartwright is played by Katharine McPhee and Ivy Lynn by Megan Hilty. Their rivalry for the lead role in a Marilyn Monroe Broadway musical forms the dramatic core of the series, with both actresses delivering powerhouse vocal performances throughout the show's two seasons.
Why was Smash cancelled after two seasons?
NBC cancelled Smash in 2013 after two seasons due to declining ratings. Season 2 underwent significant creative retooling, including a showrunner change, but viewership continued to fall. Despite a passionate fan base and critical praise for its musical numbers, the series could not sustain the broad audience NBC required.
Where can you stream Smash online?
Smash is available to stream on Peacock Premium and Amazon Prime Video in the United States. It can also be purchased or rented through Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies, and Fandango At Home. Broadway HD Amazon Channel also offers the series as part of its subscription.
What is Smash the TV series about?
Smash follows the competitive, glamorous, and often cutthroat world of Broadway theater. The series centers on the development of a Marilyn Monroe musical, tracking writers, directors, producers, and rival actresses as they navigate ambition, romance, and the relentless pressure of bringing a show to the Great White Way.
Is Smash based on a true story?
Smash is not based on a specific true story, but it draws heavily on the real world of Broadway production. Creator Theresa Rebeck, an experienced playwright, infused the series with authentic theatrical detail. The fictional Marilyn Monroe musical at the show's center, titled Bombshell, reflects genuine Broadway development processes.
How many episodes does Smash have in total?
Smash ran for 32 episodes across two seasons on NBC. Season 1 consisted of 15 episodes, while Season 2 expanded to 17 episodes. The series aired from February 2012 through May 2013 before being cancelled by the network due to falling ratings.
Who created the NBC series Smash?
Smash was created by playwright and screenwriter Theresa Rebeck. The series was executive produced by Steven Spielberg through DreamWorks Television, alongside Craig Zadan, Neil Meron, Marc Shaiman, Scott Wittman, and Joshua Safran, who later took over as showrunner for the second season.
Did Smash win any awards during its run?
Smash received several award nominations during its run, including Emmy nominations for Outstanding Choreography. The series was recognized for its musical production values and original songs composed by Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman. Megan Hilty and Katharine McPhee both earned praise from critics and industry peers for their performances.
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