Brooks Ashmanskas Earns Tony Nomination for Role in Broadway's 'Smash

6 June 2025

Brooks Ashmanskas at the 78th Annual Tony Awards 'Meet the Nominees' event on May 8, 2025 in New York City. Credit : Stephanie Augello/Variety via Getty

Veteran Broadway actor Brooks Ashmanskas has received his third Tony Award nomination, this time for Best Performance by an Actor in a Featured Role in a Musical, for his portrayal of Nigel in the stage adaptation of Smash. The musical, currently playing at the Imperial Theatre in New York City, brings the behind-the-scenes drama of creating a Marilyn Monroe musical, Bombshell, to the Broadway stage.

Ashmanskas, 55, is no stranger to the Broadway spotlight. His previous Tony nominations include roles in Martin Short: Fame Becomes Me (2006) and The Prom (2019). In Smash, he embodies Nigel, a director and choreographer navigating the tumultuous world of Broadway productions. Despite not having a solo musical number, Ashmanskas delivers a performance rich in comedic timing and character depth.

Drawing from his extensive experience in theater, Ashmanskas infuses Nigel with authenticity and humor. He describes the character as "an amalgamation of all the directors I've worked with," highlighting the pressures and eccentricities inherent in the role.

Smash originated as a 2012 NBC television series, chronicling the creation of a Broadway musical about Marilyn Monroe. The stage adaptation retains the show's core narrative, focusing on the behind-the-scenes challenges of mounting a Broadway production. The musical features songs by Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman, including fan favorites like "Let Me Be Your Star" and "The 20th Century Fox Mambo."

The production boasts a distinguished creative team, with a book by Rick Elice and Bob Martin, direction by Susan Stroman, and choreography by Joshua Bergasse, who also received a Tony nomination for his work on the show.

Ashmanskas notes the distinctive structure of Smash, describing it as "a play that's surrounded by a musical." This format allows for a blend of dramatic storytelling and musical performance, offering audiences a multifaceted theatrical experience.

Despite the challenges of balancing these elements, Ashmanskas praises the creative team for their seamless integration of narrative and music. He emphasizes the importance of delivering authentic performances within this complex framework.

Reflecting on his nomination, Ashmanskas expresses gratitude for the recognition and the opportunity to be part of a production that resonates with audiences and critics alike. He acknowledges the significance of being included among a talented cohort of nominees, which this year includes Jeb Brown (Dead Outlaw), Danny Burstein (Gypsy), Jak Malone (Operation Mincemeat), and Taylor Trensch (Floyd Collins).

Ashmanskas's performance in Smash has been lauded for its comedic brilliance and emotional depth, solidifying his reputation as a versatile and compelling stage actor. As the 78th Tony Awards approach, anticipation builds around his potential to secure his first win.

The 78th Tony Awards ceremony will take place on June 8, 2025, at Radio City Music Hall in New York City. Hosted by Cynthia Erivo, the event will be broadcast live on CBS and streamed on Paramount+.

As Ashmanskas continues to captivate audiences with his performance in Smash, his nomination serves as a testament to his enduring talent and contribution to the Broadway community. Whether or not he takes home the Tony, his portrayal of Nigel stands as a highlight of the 2024–2025 Broadway season.