Ep 7. Musical Chairs

In Smash season 2 episode 7 titled "Musical Chairs," the stakes are higher than ever as the Broadway musical "Bombshell" faces some unexpected challenges. Director Derek Wills (Jack Davenport) must find a new leading lady to replace the injured Ivy Lynn (Megan Hilty) or risk losing the show's investors.

The episode opens with the entire "Bombshell" cast and crew waiting anxiously at the theater for Ivy's arrival. However, as time ticks by, it becomes clear that she won't make it. As they begin to panic, Derek steps in to reassure everyone that the show must go on, with or without Ivy.

Enter Karen Cartwright (Katharine McPhee), who is given the opportunity of a lifetime as Derek offers her the leading role in "Bombshell." Though initially hesitant to replace Ivy, Karen eventually accepts and throws herself into rehearsals despite her lack of experience with the show's material.

Meanwhile, Ivy's absence has sparked a power struggle between her mother and "Bombshell" producer Eileen Rand (Anjelica Huston). Ivy's mother wants her daughter's understudy, Uma (Krysta Rodriguez), to take over the role, but Eileen is hesitant to make any changes that may upset the delicate balance of the production. As tensions rise, Eileen must decide whether to stay loyal to Ivy or do what's best for the show.

Elsewhere, "Bombshell" composer Tom Levitt (Christian Borle) has his hands full as he attempts to juggle his work on the musical with his new responsibilities as a father figure to his runaway nephew, Leo (Emory Cohen). As he struggles to balance the two, Tom finds himself turning to his writing partner and best friend Julia Houston (Debra Messing) for support.

As the episode progresses, each character must confront their own personal and professional challenges, culminating in a thrilling musical number that showcases Karen's newfound confidence and star power. With its combination of catchy songs, high-stakes drama, and compelling characters, "Musical Chairs" is a standout episode of Smash that is sure to keep viewers on the edge of their seats.