Smash (2012)
There is more drama behind the scenes than on stage, as the team prepares an ambitious Broadway musical on the life of Marilyn Monroe.
Cast: Debra Messing, Jack Davenport, Christian Borle, Megan Hilty, Katharine McPhee, Raza Jaffrey, Brian d'Arcy James, Jaime Cepero, Anjelica Huston, Will Chase, Leslie Odom Jr., Phillip Spaeth, Wesley Taylor, Savannah Wise, Kristine Covillo, Blake Andrew Johnson
The Tonys
"Bombshell" and "Hit List" lead the Tony nominations with twelve and thirteen nominations respectively. Some things seem a certainty at tonight's awards ceremony, primarily that Derek, who has three individual nominations, will win nothing as he is now seen as persona non grata by the Broadway community.
The Nominations
The Outer Critics Circle (OCC) Award winners, which many see as a precursor to the Tonys, have just been announced. The results amp up the strategies each team uses in securing that coveted Tony nomination.
The Transfer
Eileen and Agnes are working hard to place "Bombshell" in the best possible light for the entire cast and crew in the lead up to the Tony nominations. One of the projects is a tribute night for Tom and Julia.
The Phenomenon
The teams and individuals at both "Bombshell" and "Hit List" are going about their regular routines, both with regard to their respective shows and with their interpersonal relationships.
The Producers
Despite "Bombshell" not getting the ticket sales they were hoping, Eileen and Agnes are certain they are still on track for the show to sweep the Tonys.
Opening Night
It's "Bombshell's" opening night. As Ivy's nerves get the better of her, support comes from an unlikely source. Meanwhile, Tom and Julia look to their next project. "Bombshell's" success may be in jeopardy as Eileen's issues with Richard come to a head. Jimmy finally opens up to Karen about his past, but is it too little too late?
The Dress Rehearsal
As Tom and Julia race to ready "Bombshell" for previews, Tom's eagerness to prove himself may not be the best thing for the show. An on-stage mishap forces Ivy to make an important decision, while tension rises at "Hit List" as Karen becomes suspicious of Derek's motives towards her.
The Surprise Party
With Liza Minnelli in town, Tom plans a surprise for Ivy in an attempt to find a balance between their work life and their friendship. Relations between Karen, Jimmy, and Derek explode just as Hit List's rehearsal process nears its close. While Richard asks Eileen to spend less time at work and more time with him, Julia finds herself also pulled away from Bombshell by an unlikely source.
The Parents
After Leigh Conroy joins the cast of "Bombshell," Tom finds himself struggling to diffuse the years of tension between her and Ivy. Jimmy and Karen's connection is threatened by both Ana's newfound success and an unexpected visitor. Derek learns more about Jimmy's past just as the public sees their first piece of "Hit List."
The Bells and Whistles
When Ivy brings Sam back to town, Tom finds himself in an awkward situation. Jimmy and Derek clash over their vision for "Hit List," while both Ana and Karen struggle to stand up for what they want.
Musical Chairs
New circumstances give rise to conflicts as Karen, Tom, Julia and Derek adjust to their new surroundings. Tensions at "Liaisons" are also coming to a boil, ensuring that the show will find its place in Broadway history. Meanwhile, Eileen may have found the key to saving "Bombshell" with the help of her daughter, Katie.
The Fringe
Derek and Karen reach a turning point, so one of them makes a tough decision. Meanwhile, problems emerge in Jerry and Eileen's partnership; complications arise at the "Hit List" debut at the Fringe Festival; and Ivy attempts to save her and Terry's show.
The Read-Through
Julia's fears increase when Tom airs his suspicions of Peter. Jimmy and Kyle confront their own crisis of confidence as "Hit List" is read for the first time. Meanwhile, Ivy realizes her triumph might not be all she hoped when she meets her new co-star, Terry Falls, and Karen wonders if she can trust Jimmy.
The Song
Derek calls in help for a special event, but Jimmy's pride might get in the way of a huge opportunity Karen orchestrates for him and Kyle. Peter challenges Julia's pride as they continue to work together. Meanwhile, Ronnie struggles to assert her independence from a powerful mother, as Eileen finds herself at a moral crossroads with huge ramifications for "Bombshell."
The Dramaturg
Partnerships are tested as Eileen asks Tom and Julia to contend with an unwelcome new collaborator, while Jimmy and Kyle prepare to present their work for the first time. Derek attempts to get Ronnie back on his side. Ivy finds it hard to move on, but help from an old friend might take her one step closer to her dream.
The Fallout
The second season begins with "Bombshell" running into financial trouble that threatens the production. Meanwhile, Karen is mentored by a Broadway star and discovers a new artist in an unexpected place; and Julia faces a personal crisis with her husband.
On Broadway
Back from a successful run in Boston, Eileen, Julia and Tom are blindsided by both personal and professional obstacles as they seek to take "Bombshell" to Broadway. Karen consults her new mentor, Broadway star Veronica "Ronnie" Moore, as she finds herself on the brink of fame, but her success may come at cost to Ivy. A new talent is discovered in an unexpected place. Meanwhile, Derek copes with a damaging accusation.