Brooks Ashmanskas Shares His Inspirational Story Behind ‘Smash’ in a Personal Account
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Brooks Ashmanskas, a seasoned actor, recently received his third Tony Award nomination for his outstanding performance in the hit Broadway musical, ‘Smash’. This musical is an adaptation of the popular NBC series that delves into the production of a fictional Marilyn Monroe musical called ‘Bombshell’. Ashmanskas portrays the character of Nigel, the director and choreographer, who adds a comedic touch to the show with his witty antics. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE at the 2025 Tony Awards ‘Meet the Nominees’ event, Ashmanskas reveals the inspiration behind his comedic flair and the depth of his experience in the entertainment industry.
Ashmanskas credits his natural inclination towards humour to his upbringing and surroundings. Coming from a family with a knack for comedy, he found solace and connection through humour from a young age. Reflecting on his own life, he acknowledges the pivotal role comedy plays in navigating challenges and bringing lightness to situations. Drawing parallels between his own experiences and that of his character Nigel, Ashmanskas highlights how Nigel’s persona is a blend of various directors he has worked with over the years. The actor expresses gratitude for the mentors he has encountered in his career, shaping his portrayal of Nigel as a character caught in comedic circumstances.
The musical ‘Smash’, based on the eponymous TV series from 2012, offers a unique blend of drama and musical spectacle. The narrative follows Ivy Lynn (played by Robyn Hurder) as she immerses herself in her role as Marilyn Monroe, creating tension within the production team and cast. With a talented creative team that includes Rick Elice, Bob Martin, Susan Stroman, and Joshua Bergasse, the musical boasts a rich tapestry of music and storytelling. Ashmanskas commends the seamless integration of songs into the narrative, likening the experience to being part of a Neil Simon play surrounded by musical elements.
While Ashmanskas showcases his comedic chops on stage, he modestly downplays his singing prowess, contrasting with his fellow nominees in the Best Featured Actor in a Musical category. Despite not singing a full song in his role, the actor appreciates the vocal talents of his co-stars and acknowledges the unique skill set required for musical performances. As ‘Smash’ continues to captivate audiences at the Imperial Theatre in New York City, Ashmanskas reminisces about his early exposure to the TV show and the thrill of witnessing Broadway representation on screen.
Navigating the whirlwind of awards season, Ashmanskas maintains a grounded approach, savoring the moment and cherishing the recognition he has received. With a career spanning over three decades, the actor remains grateful for each opportunity and celebrates the journey that led him to the prestigious Tony Awards stage. As the anticipation builds for the live broadcast of the 2025 Tony Awards, audiences eagerly await Ashmanskas’s performance and presence on the theatrical night of stars and accolades.
In a world where comedy meets drama, and Broadway meets television, Brooks Ashmanskas emerges as a beacon of talent and humility. His journey from finding inspiration in his personal experiences to embodying the essence of Nigel in ‘Smash’ is a testament to the transformative power of storytelling and performance. As the curtains rise on the next chapter of Ashmanskas’s career, audiences can expect a blend of laughter, heart, and a touch of magic that only a seasoned performer like him can deliver.
*Disclaimer: The information provided has been sourced from exclusive interviews and public statements for editorial purposes. All credits and rights belong to the original sources and individuals mentioned in the article.