Smash: Season 2

Season overview

In the second season of Smash, the creative team behind the Marilyn Monroe musical Bombshell attempts to transition their production to Broadway following a successful run in Boston. Producer Eileen Rand, writers Tom Levitt and Julia Houston, director Derek Wills, and lead actress Karen Cartwright face the consequences of their past actions as they strive to realize their theatrical ambitions. The narrative explores the personal and professional challenges facing the core group as they navigate the pressures of the industry. Eileen Rand deals with the complications of her involvement with her associate Nick, while Julia Houston struggles with the state of her marriage to Frank following her infidelity. Ivy Lynn, having lost the lead role of Marilyn to Karen, must navigate the aftermath of her professional setback and her personal betrayal involving Karen's fiance. Simultaneously, the long-standing professional partnership between Tom and Julia is tested by shifting opportunities and internal tensions. As the team moves forward, they must confront the reality that even a production with potential for success cannot entirely escape the weight of previous mistakes, forcing each character to reevaluate their priorities and relationships in the high-stakes environment of Broadway.