10 Shows & Movies Like Smash (2012)

Description: This film adaptation of the Broadway musical, like 'Smash', provides a behind-the-scenes look at the lives of performers auditioning for a spot in a musical. Both works explore the sacrifices and struggles of artists, with a strong emphasis on the audition process and the pursuit of perfection.

Fact: 'A Chorus Line' was directed by Richard Attenborough. The original Broadway production won nine Tony Awards. The film features the iconic song 'What I Did for Love'.

Description: Like 'Smash', 'Chicago' is a musical that delves into the glamorous yet cutthroat world of show business. Both works feature ambitious characters navigating fame, scandal, and the pursuit of stardom, with a mix of drama and spectacular musical numbers.

Fact: 'Chicago' won six Academy Awards, including Best Picture. The film starred Renée Zellweger, Catherine Zeta-Jones, and Richard Gere. It was based on the 1975 Broadway musical of the same name.

Description: This musical drama, like 'Smash', explores the rise to fame of a group of performers, with a focus on the personal and professional challenges they face. Both works highlight the sacrifices required for success in the entertainment industry, with a strong emphasis on music and performance.

Fact: 'Dreamgirls' was adapted from the 1981 Broadway musical. The film starred Jamie Foxx, Beyoncé, and Jennifer Hudson. Jennifer Hudson won an Academy Award for her role as Effie White.

Description: This show, like 'Smash', blends drama with musical numbers, though 'Zoey's Extraordinary Playlist' adds a magical realism twist with its protagonist hearing people's inner thoughts as songs. Both shows explore the emotional and creative lives of their characters, with a strong emphasis on performance and personal growth.

Fact: The show was created by Austin Winsberg. It starred Jane Levy as Zoey. The series was praised for its innovative use of musical numbers.

Description: Similar to 'Smash', 'Burlesque' is a musical drama that follows a young performer's journey to stardom in a competitive entertainment world. Both works feature dazzling musical numbers and explore themes of ambition, love, and the pursuit of dreams.

Fact: The film starred Christina Aguilera and Cher. It was directed by Steve Antin. 'Burlesque' was Christina Aguilera's film debut.

Description: This TV remake of the cult classic, like 'Smash', celebrates musical theater and the transformative power of performance. Both works feature a mix of drama and music, with a focus on the eccentric and passionate world of show business.

Fact: The remake starred Laverne Cox as Dr. Frank-N-Furter. It was directed by Kenny Ortega. The original 1975 film is known for its midnight screenings and audience participation.

Description: Similar to 'Smash' (2012), 'Glee' is a musical drama that revolves around the lives of performers striving for success in the competitive world of show business. Both shows feature a mix of original and cover songs, and they explore themes of ambition, rivalry, and personal growth. The ensemble cast and behind-the-scenes look at the creative process are also key similarities.

Fact: 'Glee' was created by Ryan Murphy, Brad Falchuk, and Ian Brennan. The show won several Emmy Awards and a Golden Globe. It launched the careers of actors like Lea Michele, Cory Monteith, and Darren Criss.

Description: 'Nashville' shares with 'Smash' a focus on the music industry, particularly the challenges and triumphs of performers and songwriters. Both series delve into the personal and professional lives of their characters, blending drama with musical performances. The themes of ambition, legacy, and the cost of fame are central to both shows.

Fact: 'Nashville' starred Connie Britton and Hayden Panettiere. The show featured original songs, some of which became real-life hits. It was filmed on location in Nashville, Tennessee.

Description: Like 'Smash', 'Empire' is a drama set in the entertainment industry, focusing on the power struggles within a family-run business. Both shows combine personal drama with musical performances, and they explore themes of ambition, family dynamics, and the pursuit of artistic excellence.

Fact: 'Empire' was created by Lee Daniels and Danny Strong. The show starred Terrence Howard and Taraji P. Henson. It was known for its soundtrack, which featured original music.

Description: Similar to 'Smash', 'Crazy Ex-Girlfriend' is a musical series that combines comedy and drama with original songs. Both shows delve into the complexities of their characters' lives and careers, with a focus on the creative process and the challenges of pursuing one's passions.

Fact: The show was created by and starred Rachel Bloom. It won an Emmy for Outstanding Original Music and Lyrics. The series was known for its satirical take on romantic comedies.