NBC’s ‘Smash’ season 2 / series finale review: Dropping the curtain
“Smash” has been on quite a journey these past two years. It started off as an ambitious musical that exhausted NBC’s marketing budget, and early on it felt like the next big thing. Thanks to low ratings and little critical buzz, it faded to the point where the series finale aired over Memorial Day Weekend (arguably one of the most terrible TV times of the year) as a two-hour programming block.
Given that producers had a sense of what coming, the show at least did have an ending that will satisfy some people. We saw the Tony Awards, big character moments, and of course music. Plenty of music. The final sing-off between Karen and Ivy seemed appropriate, even if it did come somewhat out of left field given that they were just at each others throats.
Then again, maybe this was part of the problem with this finale over all. While there was some notice of the ratings decline, the ending still felt somewhat rushed. We found out that Ivy and “Bombshell” won some of the big Tonys, but who imagined seeing Julia show up at Michael Swift’s door at the end? Not the kind of ending that we wanted to see there. Also, Karen and Jimmy seemed to have a small victory for themselves, kissing and giving us a dream that they may still together forever. It basically was a microcosm for “Smash” as a whole: Promising, but a little disjointed.
It’s sad that there is no “Smash” season 3, given that the show had moments this year where it really felt like it was going places. It is for this reason that we are hoping that someone gives this genre a chance again in the future, as it still does feel like it’s worth the effort.
What was your take on the “Smash” series finale? Be sure to vote in the poll below, and sound off with a comment! If you want to read even more news when it comes to the show’s potential legacy, all you have to do is click here.
Photo: NBC
Albert
June 1, 2013 @ 8:42 am
I was iffy in the middle of this season.. honestly… I had no idea where the show was going midway. BUT after that I realized this season needed a beg, middle, end. The music in season 2 was sooo beautiful that I wish a season 3 could of picked up. For finally towards the end it was heading somewhere. My heart went out to this cast for their talents and will have a great place on my charts of great television. Full of lights, camera and action without breaking any legs.
JP14
May 28, 2013 @ 12:14 am
I really liked Smash and am bummed to hear it is ending. I thought Season 3 would be the musical movie mentioned at the end. I thought the finale was great…I felt like I was watching a real awards show but actually caring about the winners. I understand the comments re: Jimmy, but he does have a fantastic voice. Hopefully it will be picked up!
Steve
May 27, 2013 @ 6:46 pm
Great finale – but had to mark it down to a B for not revealing the Best Director winner… Disgraceful after the bit building it up earlier in the show
Disappointed fan
May 27, 2013 @ 1:59 pm
I agree, 100%! WORST season finale, ever! I have watched every episode for both seasons and was a huge fan. Josh Saffron is an idiot. He went out of his way to devalue Karen’s character and make her seem weak and pathetic. There are no words to describe Jimmy – what a complete loser! He never redeemed himself and the ending felt so forced. So the nice girl not only gets the jerky boyfriend, but also loses the Tony to the selfish, conniving Ivy. How is it that all the good people with a conscience managed to finish last?! Derek and Karen had incredible chemistry in both seasons but Derek then winds up with Ivy? Huh?! He actually seemed to redeem himself in the end and do the right thing for once. It would have made more sense for him to show growth and then Karen realize she really cared for him, not the abusive Jimmy. Oh, and lets not forget Daisy who blackmailed her way into a part and then she WINS a Tony?!!!!! Wow. Guess it pays to be a backstabbing, conniving b*tch. So glad they cancelled this show. I was so mad by the time it finished. I couldn’t have taken watching another season with the horrible, unbelievable storylines, terrible writing by Josh and mash-up of bad people consistently winning in the end.
Tia
May 28, 2013 @ 1:55 am
Also, let’s not forget the botch up job they did with Tom and Julia’s partnership and Julia’s relationship with her ex lover Micheal because last thing I remember he was freaking married with a kid. Also Scott, who took Hitlist to broadway, did not even come to Tony. Let’s not forget the fight between Ivy & Karen when she thought that Karen told the media about Derek and her affair which in fact Eileen’s doing. But even though the truth never came out, suddenly they were buddy-buddy again? Not to mention, there were no consequences for blackmailing the director for Daisy and instead of telling the interviewer the truth about her blackmailing him, Derek lies again saying he blackmailed Daisy for the role in exchange for a roll in the sack… WTF… How is instead of telling the complete truth, being a moronic martyr/lier is redeeming one’s character, I’d never understand. What the hell does it prove? Season 2 turned out to be a Kyle Bishop, Jimmy jackass, conniving games/blackmailer tribute instead of story of triumph of hard work and dignity.
Fred
May 27, 2013 @ 1:14 pm
Soap opera
Soap opera
Soap opera
Nancy
May 27, 2013 @ 11:37 am
I like the show, the musical talent was great. Bring it back please.
leski723
May 27, 2013 @ 9:16 am
I loved this new musical TV genre. I am sorry to see “Smash” end. While the writing may have been disjointed at times, in season 2, it is to be expected of a young series. I loved the characters and most of the story lines. The music for both “Bombshell” and ‘Hit List” were amazing. I can only hope that some brave, bold producer will re-think this show and bring it back for season 3.
j
May 27, 2013 @ 8:31 am
I told my son, if Bombshell goes to Broadway, let’s go. Maybe they should take Broadway on the road – and Hit List for that matter. That would certainly please some fans and may broaden their fan base. Smash had so many good songs, it shouldn’t be put to rest.
HollyDee
May 27, 2013 @ 8:19 am
Loved.This.Show!! Bring it back NBC!! And to it’s OLD spot on Monday’s at 10pm!!! You did them wrong with Saturday nights!!!!!! Fantastic ending though but would love MORE. Another network, possibly? But hey, didn’t NBC pick this show up from another network, hence why it’s only 13 episodes? I thought I heard that back in 2012. What network was that?
Teresa
May 27, 2013 @ 7:31 am
It’s a shame that Smash was smashed in the end. It’s a refreshing change from the consistent CSI’s and NCIS’s which always talk about the negativities in society. Smash was a realistic show capturing emotions and relationship rollercoasters which is everyday life hyperbolized albeit. Get rid of the drama crime shows and bring back drama with good stories with happy endings.
Wonderful finale. Wonderful story line. Amazing actors.
Bring back Smash!
Jason b
May 27, 2013 @ 5:31 am
Just got done watching finale loved the show partly because love theatre .Would given a Aplus but now seeing its going to be canceled a c.
Nicole Percaciante
May 27, 2013 @ 5:28 am
I watch the show every week with my parent. We enjoy the singing. They have lot of amazing talent on that show. It is really great to see people you never new that can sing that well. I want the show to come back. I will miss watching. I love musical I think it was nice to bring in new one had two different story line going threw. See the making and hard work that goes behind it. I would really it like to come back for a third season. The guest star they have on it been great to.
disqus_5n1haV7c2U
May 27, 2013 @ 5:06 am
Nooooooooooo!! dont end smash!!!!
Cay White
May 27, 2013 @ 5:00 am
So sad to see this show end. The talent was amazing!
CW.....
May 27, 2013 @ 4:44 am
I watched, and looked forward to, every episode, — until it was moved to Saturday. The day wasn’t the problem though. THE PROBLEM IS THAT IT WAS NOT SHOWN AT 9/8 AS ANNOUNCED, but an hour earlier. So every time I thought I was recording it, it was NOT there. To make matters worse, it was not listed properly in our local TV guide either. I finally found it after 3 weeks of frustration by calling our local NBC station. I don’t think NBC gave it the support it deserved after the first season. I eagerly looked for it in the fall, and was disappointed to have to wait til January. Then it was not on every week. It was often preempted by other things. You could not count on it with any regularity. (Networks do this to other shows as well, and it really hurts their following.)
I agree with others that the writing of the early season 2 shows was disjointed and lacked focus. It seemed to be floundering until spring. The finale seemed to wrap up the various story lines somewhat unevenly, but generally satisfactorily.
I hope that we get more shows of this nature. I am so sick of inane sitcoms, and crime shows. I find that I am watching more and more PBS and fewer network shows. (I have no cable or satellite and like it that way.)
Crsmith
May 27, 2013 @ 4:30 am
Bring it back. This was a must see show for me. You are CRAZY for not bringing this back! Loved the characters, story and awesome music and talent!
fee12107
May 27, 2013 @ 4:23 am
Please don’t cancel! I LOVE this show!!
fanfav
May 27, 2013 @ 4:14 am
Loved Smash! Please don’t cancel. Wednesday night would be better. Best show on TV
Amy
May 27, 2013 @ 3:57 am
So sad to see Smash ending. :( it’s a shame to see such a unique and entertaining show come to an end.
Do not end Smash the show NBC
May 27, 2013 @ 3:49 am
We created a Facebook page:
‘Do not end ‘smash’ the show NBC
Please sign in and go to the page!
We don’t want SMASH to End. We have been watching since the beginning. This is a family show that we all love.
Do not end smash the show NBC –
Ashelaine
May 27, 2013 @ 3:31 am
NBC please bring it back!!! Best show in a long while! Give it one more chance…, please!!!!
Jennifer Oberding
May 27, 2013 @ 3:16 am
Love Smash!!!! Bring it back!!!!! I’m heartbroken that it was cancelled!
Do not end Smash the show NBC
May 27, 2013 @ 3:49 am
Go to Facebook page and like
Do not end Smash the show NBC
We want a season 3! Please sign the petition.
Please!
917angel
May 27, 2013 @ 3:14 am
The only problem with “Smash” was NBC. They kept playing with a set schedule for broadcast. It made difficult for fans of the show to faithfully watch. I am very sad and disappointed that “Smash” was not renewed.
Donna
May 27, 2013 @ 3:14 am
Best show on TV, needs to be continued.
Iris Nunn Boulton
May 27, 2013 @ 3:09 am
NBC, please bring SMASH back. It is my favourite show, I have watched every episode, including tonight’s season 2 finale. I want to see more!!!!!!!
Do not end Smash the show NBC
May 27, 2013 @ 3:49 am
Go to Facebook page and like
Do not end Smash the show NBC
We want a season 3! Please sign the petition.
Please!!!
Puckishpixie
May 30, 2013 @ 7:22 am
There’s 2 of you, now we just need to find the other 8 fans nationwide.
pickle123
May 27, 2013 @ 3:05 am
I don’t want Smash to leave!
Terri
May 27, 2013 @ 3:04 am
NBC don’t stop Smash!!! It was fun, crazy, and we want more!
dwm
May 27, 2013 @ 3:04 am
So sad that there won’t be a season #3! I have really loved every episode, one of the very few shows I’ve watched regularly. It will be missed – maybe NBC will reconsider???
Do not end Smash the show NBC
May 27, 2013 @ 3:47 am
Go to Facebook page and like
Do not end Smash the show NBC
We want a season 3! Please sign the petition.