The NBC Broadway drama ‘Smash’ will add Oscar-winning actress Jennifer Hudson when season two airs in the fall.
Hudson won the Academy Award for Supporting Actress for her portrayal in ‘Dreamgirls.’ She has signed on to play Veronica Moore on ‘Smash.’
The former Idol alum from season three will appear in a multiple-episode role on the show that stars another Idol competitor, season five runner-up Katharine McPhee.
NBC Entertainment chairman Robert Greenblatt said in a network announcement, “We’re thrilled to have Jennifer Hudson coming to ‘Smash.’ This series is a showcase of some of the best musical talent in the business, and that’s a fitting description for Jennifer Hudson. Her character will represent someone who reached their Broadway dream but also paid a price for it.”
Executive producer Steven Spielberg said, “It’s wonderful to be reunited with her at Dreamworks Television and NBC.”
For those who followed the first season, three characters have been booted: Jaime Cepero (Ellis) and Raza Jaffrey (Dev) are out and Brian D’Arcy James (Frank), will return briefly before wrapping up his storyline opposite Debra Messing‘s Julia.
Photos: WENN