American Idol Runner Up Signs On To NBC TV Musical

Steven Spielberg’s TV musical drama Smash has signed on up-and-coming star and American Idol runner-up Katharine McPhee.

The NBC show will be about multiple characters who join forces to put on a Broadway musical inspired by Marilyn Monroe. McPhee will play a struggling actress determined to win the Monroe role.

Debra Messing and Jack Davenport (FlashForward) have been cast as the show’s lyricist and choreographer, respectively. The pilot will be directed by Spring Awakening‘s Michael Mayer.

McPhee’s other acting credits include a role in the film The House Bunny, as well as guest spots on Community and CSI: NY.