Smash

:

Season 1
  • Network: NBC
  • Series Premiere Date: Feb 6, 2012
Season #: 2, 1
User Score
7.1

Generally favorable reviews- based on 124 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 87 out of 124
  2. Mixed: 16 out of 124
  3. Negative: 21 out of 124
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User Reviews

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  1. a7xfan
    Apr 3, 2012
    8
    So far in the 9 episodes I have watched they have been good with two hot leads to carry out the drama of what it is like being in the show business whether you've been in it for ten years or for ten days and the co-stars are decent as well like Debra Messing, Jack Davenport, and Angelica Houston. The songs which are original by the way are actually pretty good as well even though I am theSo far in the 9 episodes I have watched they have been good with two hot leads to carry out the drama of what it is like being in the show business whether you've been in it for ten years or for ten days and the co-stars are decent as well like Debra Messing, Jack Davenport, and Angelica Houston. The songs which are original by the way are actually pretty good as well even though I am the type of guy who listens to rock all day. You should try giving this show a chance, you might like it.… Expand
  2. EddyMac
    Apr 15, 2012
    5
    Smash will not last. While the marketing of the show had people on the edge of their seats, it has unfortunately been a let down. A promising pilot transformed itself into quite an average series. Smash is over-dramatised, and quite poorly cast (Nick Jonas/Uma Thurman I'm talking about you). Katherine McPhee is quite amazing, and most of the acing isn't to bad, but nothing that will keepSmash will not last. While the marketing of the show had people on the edge of their seats, it has unfortunately been a let down. A promising pilot transformed itself into quite an average series. Smash is over-dramatised, and quite poorly cast (Nick Jonas/Uma Thurman I'm talking about you). Katherine McPhee is quite amazing, and most of the acing isn't to bad, but nothing that will keep you awaiting next weeks episodes with anything more than apathy.… Expand
  3. heyitsmegrif4
    Apr 5, 2012
    10
    From the incredible performances, to the triumphant first episode, Smash could be the next great thing. Let me tell you this it sure should be. And it should stay for a long time.
  4. nathan737
    Feb 7, 2012
    9
    While I didn't expect much from a so-called "musical," I was blown away by the acting and plot of this show. There are no cliches or predictable parts. The music is excellent. I can't find any problems with this show.
  5. BobSaban
    Feb 18, 2012
    10
    Pilot definitely impressed. I've been reading NBC shelled out tons of money on this show, and yeah, it was well worth it. I'll be a continuous supporter of the show as long as they keep doing things like having Katherine McPhee impress all in her cover of Adele's "Rumor Has It". Don't get left behind - catch the video here: http://www.nbc.com/smash/video/rumor-has-it/1384854
  6. QuintonI
    May 15, 2012
    10
    I have watched all 15 episodes of the season and was left wanting more. SMASH has the right amount of all that makes a great show. The musical numbers are wonderful with the inclusion of many great original songs, a risk the competition didn't dare take until it had gained its fan club. The acting from the main characters is fantastic. It's nice to see Debra Messing back in a TV platformI have watched all 15 episodes of the season and was left wanting more. SMASH has the right amount of all that makes a great show. The musical numbers are wonderful with the inclusion of many great original songs, a risk the competition didn't dare take until it had gained its fan club. The acting from the main characters is fantastic. It's nice to see Debra Messing back in a TV platform and with the inclusion of Jack Davenport, the show has that scandalous edge that boils throughout the season. A must watch for anyone who loves some great music, scandal and something different from the crime shows on elsewhere no doubt.… Expand
  7. emkadv
    Mar 15, 2013
    9
    If you like musical theater, you will probably love this show. Although there is clearly room for improvement (the Uma Thurman arc, for example), the show feels like theater, even when you know they are cutting corners for plot development. Many of the songs are very good, and one each season has been outstanding. If you were following the show, the first season's "Thousand and One Nights"If you like musical theater, you will probably love this show. Although there is clearly room for improvement (the Uma Thurman arc, for example), the show feels like theater, even when you know they are cutting corners for plot development. Many of the songs are very good, and one each season has been outstanding. If you were following the show, the first season's "Thousand and One Nights" number reflected the show up to that point brilliantly in a clever Bollywood version. Find it on YouTube and watch it.

    In the second season, Episode 4, "The Song", contained a wonderful adaptation of Billy Joel's "Everybody Loves You Now", morphing from Joel's version to performances by cast members of the later verses. It fit Jennifer Hudson's character perfectly, and she performed it well.

    Rumor has it that Universal is considering bringing a version of "Bombshell" (the show that is the center of Smash) to Broadway.    … Expand
  8. fredinwhiterock
    Apr 28, 2012
    9
    Just like a great theatrical musical, Smash is a light drama that delivers great song and dance numbers. All the principal actors have done a good or great job so far. The only negative so far was the Nick Jonas piece.
  9. BlackPhantom
    Feb 7, 2012
    8
    I really like the cast and everything, I can't really find anything wrong with the pilot as a whole, nothing about it seems to predictable or stereotypical. Like Glee, you'll simply love this show if you consider yourself a bohemian. The casting is amazing. This might turn into a series I watch regularly.
  10. StreetsBehind
    Feb 10, 2012
    8
    As someone who doesn't gravitate towards musical-based shows, I found the pilot thoroughly enjoyable. Both the writing and the acting were good, and I was entertained throughout. Katharine McPhee was fantastic. I will continue to watch the rest of the season, however for people who normally wouldn't watch shows based on this type of content (like myself), it may be hard to stay on boardAs someone who doesn't gravitate towards musical-based shows, I found the pilot thoroughly enjoyable. Both the writing and the acting were good, and I was entertained throughout. Katharine McPhee was fantastic. I will continue to watch the rest of the season, however for people who normally wouldn't watch shows based on this type of content (like myself), it may be hard to stay on board for the seasons to come.… Expand
  11. 1016Sammy
    Apr 18, 2012
    10
    Beautiful beautiful beautiful what can I say every episode is like a really great movie and that's why I love it! It makes glee look like child's play as it gives us a rare look into the back stage world of Broadway we rarely ever see.
  12. dzy
    Apr 24, 2012
    8
    Never watched a musical themed show before, but I thought I'd give it a shot. Overall its a solid show. It has some great music written for it, nice bits of drama, and a solid story. The two lead actresses are great, I pretty much enjoy every song they sing. The show does has its ups and downs, but not bad enough to stop me from watching.
  13. mel_glaze
    May 3, 2012
    9
    I really didn't think I was going to enjoy this show and almost didn't give it a chance, I'm glad I did. With a great cast, good music and a decent story line that keeps one engaged this show has been a pleasant surprise.
  14. savagela
    May 15, 2012
    10
    Fantastic. The dance numbers are fantastic! The Ballads are a little too "American Idol" for my taste. Anjelica Huston? Magnificent. Debra Messing? Wondrous. Uma Thurman? In a Musical? OMG she's utterly great.
  15. jpratherr
    Jun 19, 2012
    10
    The smell of the grease paint , the roar of the crowd is alive and well in this NBC musical sudser. Think Glee, post graduation. Although some of the characters, like Elliot, are beyond annoying, the cast is perfectly in tune. Katherine McPhee gets better each week, but still has a lot of room for growth. That being said, she has leading lady written all over her. And do not discountThe smell of the grease paint , the roar of the crowd is alive and well in this NBC musical sudser. Think Glee, post graduation. Although some of the characters, like Elliot, are beyond annoying, the cast is perfectly in tune. Katherine McPhee gets better each week, but still has a lot of room for growth. That being said, she has leading lady written all over her. And do not discount the delightfully wicked (no pun intended -- well maybe) Megan Hilty. She is a more than worthy foil for McPhee's sugar-sweet girl next door. I am looking forward to the new season.… Expand
  16. cpierron
    Aug 8, 2012
    10
    Smash is a exhilarating series about the ups and downs of showbiz! I have not been so captivated by such amazing works of art, the singing, dancing and compassion of theater in this tv show get my heart fluttering every time! The actors/actresses are amazing, I am glad that they will be letting go some of the people (that are not my favorites) :P The mix of drama and comedy make this oneSmash is a exhilarating series about the ups and downs of showbiz! I have not been so captivated by such amazing works of art, the singing, dancing and compassion of theater in this tv show get my heart fluttering every time! The actors/actresses are amazing, I am glad that they will be letting go some of the people (that are not my favorites) :P The mix of drama and comedy make this one of my all time favorites and I will be counting down the months to the next season, and season's to come! No other show can top this, Glee and similar's really have nothing on this! Its so refreshing to see something unique and different in TV! I NEVER get bored or have a dull moment because there is always drama in the theater! I am completely in love with this show and everyone in it, I love Karen (Katharine) she really is the perfect Marilyn, and she needs her chance to be the STAR! I'm super impressed and will continue watching through it all!!! Cant wait for the second round, TO BROADWAY! - C.P… Expand
  17. emperorpenguin
    Sep 2, 2012
    8
    This show has interesting story line that makes you can't wait for the next episode.The problem is none of the cast is really outstanding, even for Angelica Huston and Debra Messing. The fact that this show is about Broadway, it's really hard to keep the show on air for many seasons unless the writers are brilliant enough to keep this show interesting and different.
  18. marigam
    Dec 14, 2012
    8
    I agree that his show has over dramatized moments. But I think they are appropriate since this show is about people working on musicals and Broadway. These are not chill personalities; they are artists. They're living a fantastical life. It makes sense to me that their relationships and lives are a bit dramatic. I like it. In comparison with other "singing" shows I think its much betterI agree that his show has over dramatized moments. But I think they are appropriate since this show is about people working on musicals and Broadway. These are not chill personalities; they are artists. They're living a fantastical life. It makes sense to me that their relationships and lives are a bit dramatic. I like it. In comparison with other "singing" shows I think its much better that Glee(I can't take Glee seriously, at all!) but its not as good as Nashville.… Expand
  19. elreader46
    Mar 4, 2012
    10
    This show is what glee should be. Smash is fun, interesting, and actually features people that are musically talented. The story is engaging and deserves a standing ovation.
  20. AndyBeaux
    Feb 6, 2012
    9
    It was an amazing pilot. I was one of those fans who had been waiting over 6 months to see it - and i wasn't disappointed. It has the perfect mixture of drama, wit and music. It really is superior to Glee.
  21. lilmonster33
    Mar 4, 2012
    10
    I remember watching a sneak peek at this and thought they were just trying to copy Glee. Then I watched the pilot episode, and I completely fell in love with the show. Katharine McPhee and Megan Hilty are great actors and wonderful singers. Plus, they're backed up by wonderful actors such as Debra Messing and Anjelica Houston.
  22. walkerkm
    Jul 27, 2012
    10
    I LOVED SMASH!! AND AM EXCITED IT WAS RENEWED FOR A SECOND SEASON :o)

    THE MUSIC WAS GREAT, THE PARTS WERE GOOD. THE ONLY THING THAT GOT A LITTLE OLD WAS DEBRA MESSINGS CHARACTER BEING ALL WHINEY ABOUT WORKING WITH MICHAEL JUST BECAUSE SHE SCREWED UP AND ALMOST ENDED HER MARRIAGE. THAT WAS IT. LOVED THE REST OF THE SEASON AND ALL THE CHARACTERS!! CAN'T WAIT TIL SEPT!!
  23. jrb
    Feb 14, 2012
    1
    I don't know what show that the positive reviewers are watching but it sure isn't this one. I gave it a second week and that episode was worse than the first. The acting is absolutely horrendous. The cast seems to be either bored with their part and walking through it or overdramatizing a dull storyline. Huston an example of the first; Messing the second. I can't tell you how disappointedI don't know what show that the positive reviewers are watching but it sure isn't this one. I gave it a second week and that episode was worse than the first. The acting is absolutely horrendous. The cast seems to be either bored with their part and walking through it or overdramatizing a dull storyline. Huston an example of the first; Messing the second. I can't tell you how disappointed I am as I was really looking forward to this as a vehicle for McPhee who is a wonderful talent. The plot is absolutely unbelievable, the characters unlikable, just awful. BTW, Glee works most of the time because it doesn't take itself too seriously. NBC should be ashamed and I'm done with it!… Expand
  24. podaddy
    Mar 5, 2012
    3
    I initially gave this show a 9, based upon the Pilot, and subsequently dropped that to a 5 after viewing episodes 2 and 3. I have now watched episode 4, and yes folks, it gets worse. Nick Jonas? Are you kidding me? I've gone from questioning the writing and direction of this show, and now, the casting. I would love to know what all the favorable reviewers who lauded this show after itsI initially gave this show a 9, based upon the Pilot, and subsequently dropped that to a 5 after viewing episodes 2 and 3. I have now watched episode 4, and yes folks, it gets worse. Nick Jonas? Are you kidding me? I've gone from questioning the writing and direction of this show, and now, the casting. I would love to know what all the favorable reviewers who lauded this show after its Pilot now think. They can't possibly think it's as good as they initially thought. I'm settling at THREE and never watching this show again.… Expand
  25. MegWhiteley
    Mar 3, 2012
    0
    One of the worst shows ever!!! This form to intent do glee is terrible, because the numbers are awful, the cast is very regular, I prefer the losers and not this winners.
  26. Opinionsaplenty
    Apr 14, 2012
    10
    This show fluctuates wildly from great to terrible. It started out disappointing, but not tragic, so I kept watching, and was rewarded with plenty of great moments. It seems to me like the producers are always trying to second-guess themselves, to keep it light and cute, but also "real." Why? We already have Glee! What we don't have what is we were pitched: The West Wing withThis show fluctuates wildly from great to terrible. It started out disappointing, but not tragic, so I kept watching, and was rewarded with plenty of great moments. It seems to me like the producers are always trying to second-guess themselves, to keep it light and cute, but also "real." Why? We already have Glee! What we don't have what is we were pitched: The West Wing with songs. If the producers keep hedging their bets, this show will be canceled in the next year. I hope that doesn't happen, because musicals captivate us for a reason, and this show has the makings of something bold and entertaining and great.… Expand
  27. brenkh
    Feb 25, 2012
    2
    I was hoping my first review here would be a more positive one. Unfortunately its not going to be. The plot is going downhill since the pilot. I see no future for this show.
  28. Rightmuch
    Feb 8, 2012
    2
    If this show is supposed to be competition, I doubt Glee has anything to worry about.. Glee has had more misses than hits lately, and my wife and I were hoping that Smash would be a good alternative. The characters were annoying, the story contrived and the numbers mediocre. Good thing this show really fictitious. It would never make it out of workshop. Probably won't make it pastIf this show is supposed to be competition, I doubt Glee has anything to worry about.. Glee has had more misses than hits lately, and my wife and I were hoping that Smash would be a good alternative. The characters were annoying, the story contrived and the numbers mediocre. Good thing this show really fictitious. It would never make it out of workshop. Probably won't make it past this season if the Nielsen's are any indication. Last many of their viewers, we quit watching halfway through it.… Expand
  29. Captiosus
    Feb 6, 2012
    5
    Make no mistake, this is NBC's latest attempt to capitalize on the success of Glee by trying a similar format only with a more mature drama attached. Essentially it's Glee and Fame with a side order of A Chorus Line except the main actors gave little life to their characters, leaving the viewer with little real attachment to them, and the music is, so far, lackluster. I finished watchingMake no mistake, this is NBC's latest attempt to capitalize on the success of Glee by trying a similar format only with a more mature drama attached. Essentially it's Glee and Fame with a side order of A Chorus Line except the main actors gave little life to their characters, leaving the viewer with little real attachment to them, and the music is, so far, lackluster. I finished watching bored with the plot that droned on and wasn't convincing (they really compressed too many events over too long of a story period into a 44 minute pilot), unimpressed by the music, and with no emotional connection to the lead characters. I have zero desire to watch any further, but I'll probably be in the minority.… Expand
  30. Beau
    Feb 6, 2012
    10
    VERY impressive pilot. Extremely entertaining and full of heart. The drama and pacing is fantastic. Glee will have their ass handed to them by this show; it is far superior.
  31. Dobby
    Feb 21, 2012
    6
    After watching the first 3 episodes, I'm really enjoying this show. Some of the side stories are a bit shaky and I'm not fully sold on the actress playing the lead role (Catherine McPhee), but the overall cast is pretty strong, so it doesn't matter that much. If you like Broadway, you'll enjoy the musical numbers, which are well-executed. Also, the only thing that this show has in commonAfter watching the first 3 episodes, I'm really enjoying this show. Some of the side stories are a bit shaky and I'm not fully sold on the actress playing the lead role (Catherine McPhee), but the overall cast is pretty strong, so it doesn't matter that much. If you like Broadway, you'll enjoy the musical numbers, which are well-executed. Also, the only thing that this show has in common with Glee, is that they both have music and dance numbers. Otherwise, the plots are completely different. Personally, I prefer Smash, which has more of a believable plot.… Expand
  32. aggiefanatic95
    Feb 6, 2012
    5
    If you love American Idol/ The Voice/ The X Factor or musicals, you will like this show. Unfortunately I don't like those kind of shows/ movies but overall thought it was alright. I like shows that are able to hook for multiple seasons which I don't think Smash will be able to do. I think it will last around 2 seasons then get cancelled, unless the writers come up with some great material.
  33. MattJenki
    Feb 27, 2012
    7
    Slowly getting into this. its more like a drama version of Glee. Less humour but more real life issues. I do think its worth a watch. Hope it grows with time.
  34. kcnbt99
    Feb 29, 2012
    9
    I am not a fan of Glee at all. I have never found it entertaining. And yet, people seem to compare the two simply because they both have music. They need to stop trying to see similarities and just give this show a shot. It's AMAZING! It's so in depth and interesting. The characters are witty and intriguing. I've noticed that people watched the pilot but then stopped there. I think thatI am not a fan of Glee at all. I have never found it entertaining. And yet, people seem to compare the two simply because they both have music. They need to stop trying to see similarities and just give this show a shot. It's AMAZING! It's so in depth and interesting. The characters are witty and intriguing. I've noticed that people watched the pilot but then stopped there. I think that was a mistake. This show is good. It definitely has some growing to do but I'm hooked. I'm just waiting to find out what happens next.… Expand
  35. hulu_watcher
    Jun 19, 2012
    1
    Gag! ... 'nuff said. Yet another struggling actress, or writer, or singer... How about a story that might matter?
    If I never have to watch another show about show business it will be too soon.
  36. WilliamBatson
    Jul 7, 2012
    0
    This show is complete and utter CRAP! The acting is bad, the singing is bad, the show is bad. It's all bad! It even has a stupid name. Smash.....so incredibly stupid! Who would name a TV show 'Smash'? A funny Alpaca maybe? Nah, Alpaca's are cool. They won't make up crappy crap like this show. Don't bother wasting your time. It's CRAP!
  37. Infurious
    Jul 27, 2012
    10
    This show introduces a brand new component in tv shows - music and dance. At first I thought its going to be gay. But once I heard Kat's voice I was captured and couldn't miss it. I have watched every single show that deserves to be watched and really this one is like a fresh breeze.I wouldn't miss to put it in the top 30.

Awards & Rankings

21
#21 Best TV Season of 2012
18
#18 Most Discussed TV Season of 2012

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
79

Generally favorable reviews - based on 32 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 27 out of 32
  2. Mixed: 5 out of 32
  3. Negative: 0 out of 32
  1. Boston Globe
    Reviewed by: Don Aucoin
    Feb 7, 2012
    70
    The show works much better when it gives us a glimpse into its distinctive milieu.
    Read full review
  2. Denver Post
    Reviewed by: Joanne Ostrow
    Feb 6, 2012
    90
    The cast, from Katharine McPhee and Megan Hilty to Debra Messing and Angelica Huston, is superb. The subject matter is a carefully blended mix of artistic and accessible.
    Read full review
  3. Los Angeles Times
    Reviewed by: Mary McNamara
    Feb 6, 2012
    100
    Smash is a triumph.
    Read full review
See all critic reviews »