Smash

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Debra Messing is reportedly in talks to play the lead role in NBC pilot Smash.

The musical project will follow a group of characters who decide to stage a Broadway show about the life of Marilyn Monroe.

Messing will play Julia, a friendly lyricist who is initially unsure about the show's subject matter, according to TV Line.

The actress is best known for her role in NBC sitcom Will & Grace. She recently appeared in an episode of Law & Order: Special Victims Unit and also starred in short-lived USA series The Starter Wife.

Hollywood legend Steven Spielberg is currently linked to the Smash pilot, along with Chicago producers Craig Zadan and Neil Meron, and Hairspray songwriters Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman.

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Katharine McPhee has signed on for Steven Spielberg's upcoming musical drama Smash, according to reports.

The singer and actress will star in the NBC pilot which revolves around a group who team together to stage a Broadway show based on the life on Marilyn Monroe, says The Hollywood Reporter.

Details of McPhee's character have not been announced, although it has been confirmed that former Will & Grace star Debra Messing will play the production's lyricist, and that Jack Davenport will appear as the choreographer.

Spielberg is among the executive producers of Smash.

McPhee shot to fame on American Idol, where she finished runner-up on the fifth season. She has since appeared in movies including The House Bunny and guest starred in TV shows such as CSI: NY and Community.

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Brian d’Arcy James has joined NBC's Broadway drama Smash playing Debra Messing’s husband.

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Promo

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Sky Atlantic has picked up the rights to the new US drama Smash.

The series, which premieres in the States in February, focuses on a group of people putting together a musical about the life of Marilyn Monroe.

Among the stars taking part are former American Idol contestant Katharine McPhee, Will & Grace's Debra Messing, Anjelica Huston and Jack Davenport.

Steven Spielberg has signed up to executive produce the project.

Sky Atlantic has now announced on its website that it will be broadcasting the series.

The broadcaster's director Elaine Pyke described Smash as "the perfect addition" to the channel's lineup, while Sky's controller of acquisitions Sarah Wright said it is "sharp and entertaining" and "quality US drama at its best".

Smash is due to premiere in the UK on Sky Atlantic early next year.

[tammyy2j]

Uma Thurman has joined the cast of NBC's new musical series Smash.

The Bel Ami actress has signed on for a major story arc on the show, though it is unclear in how many episodes she will appear.

Thurman will play "a famous and somewhat difficult movie star who flirts with the idea of starring in Marilyn", the musical upon which Smash is based.

The series stars Katharine McPhee, Anjelica Houston and Debra Messing. It is produced by Steven Spielberg.

Smash will premiere on Monday, February 6 at 10/9c.

In June, Smash signed a deal with Columbia Records for rights to the music from the first season.

[tammyy2j]

Gwyneth Paltrow's ruled out a return to Glee after signing up for Steven Spielberg's new rival show Smash!

Steven poached his goddaughter Gwyn, 39, for a recurring role in his new NBC musical, but made her agree not to return to McKinley High as Holly Holiday.