Smash

NBC · 2012-2013 · 2 Seasons · 32 Episodes · Ended
DramaMusic
46
Fan Heat

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About Smash

Smash pulls back the velvet curtain on Broadway, following the cutthroat and exhilarating campaign to mount an original musical about Marilyn Monroe. Songwriters Julia Houston and Tom Levitt dream up the show, but everything hinges on one impossible question: who can possibly embody a legend?

That question ignites a fierce rivalry between two very different women. Ivy Lynn is a seasoned ensemble veteran who has paid her dues and believes the role is finally hers, while Karen Cartwright is a wide-eyed newcomer from Iowa whose raw talent threatens to upend the pecking order. Caught between them is a roster of producers, directors, and dreamers whose ambitions collide at every rehearsal.

Across two seasons of backstage betrayals, showstopping original numbers, and last-minute reinventions, the series captures the agony and ecstasy of making theatre. It stars Katharine McPhee, Megan Hilty, and Jack Davenport.

Production Details & Legacy

Smash was created by Theresa Rebeck and originally aired on NBC, with streaming available on Peacock. The series ran for 2 seasons and 32 episodes from 2012-2013, establishing itself as a landmark entry in the drama and music genres. Since its conclusion, Smash has continued to attract new viewers through streaming platforms and remains a frequent subject of critical reappraisal and fan discussion.

The series features a rich ensemble of characters that have become iconic within television fandom. TVCeleb profiles 3 key characters from Smash, including Karen Cartwright (Katharine McPhee), Ivy Lynn (Megan Hilty), Derek Wills (Jack Davenport). Each character has inspired dedicated fan communities, extensive analysis, and passionate debate about their motivations, relationships, and story arcs throughout the series.

Smash holds a Fan Heat Score of 46 out of 100 on TVCeleb, reflecting the intensity and passion of its fanbase. The show has built a committed and enthusiastic community of viewers who continue to engage with and champion the series. The series is notable for its drama, music, theatre qualities, which have contributed to its enduring appeal and cross-generational viewership.

Characters (3)

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? Frequently Asked Questions

Smash is a backstage musical drama about the high-stakes effort to create a Broadway show about Marilyn Monroe. It pits a seasoned stage veteran against a talented newcomer as they compete for the coveted lead role, set against a world of original showtunes, ruthless producers, and creative ambition.

Smash stars Katharine McPhee as Karen Cartwright, Megan Hilty as Ivy Lynn, and Jack Davenport as director Derek Wills. The ensemble also features Broadway veterans alongside a rotating slate of guest performers.

Smash streams on Peacock (and other platforms in some regions). Availability varies by region, so check your local streaming guide for current options.