The series premiere of Smash takes us behind the scenes of Marilyn The Musical, as we meet the show's writers; director; producer and potential stars.

The driving force behind the episode is the battle between Ivy Lynn, a Broadway ensemble veteran and Karen Cartwright, an aspiring actress from Iowa. They are both vying for the lead role. Elsewhere:

- One key writer is trying to balance her home life, including a new adoption, with her excitement over the production.

- The other writer has a feud with the director.

- The main producer is going through a messy divorce, with most of her assets in escrow.

- Karen is in a serious relationship with Dev, an employee in the Mayor's office.