Smash was one of the bigger gambles undertaken by NBC during the 2012 TV season. The series, chronicling the conflict that occurs when a Broadway play based on the life of Marilyn Monroe is mounted, was heavily expensive, conceptually unique and even featured original songs as well as a cast that included Anjelica Huston, Debra Messing, Jack Davenport and Katherine McPhee. Fortunately, the gamble paid off for NBC, and Smash has been a moderate hit for the network, bolstered in part by its lead-in, the reality hit The Voice, and NBC showed its confidence in the show by renewing it earlier today for a 15-episode second season. However, it’s not all roses for the show, as shortly after the renewal, news has emerged that showrunner Theresa Rebeck will not be continuing with Smash following its first season. While not much is known about the departure at this point, reports suggest NBC was unhappy with the creative direction the show has taken, and the search is underway for her replacement.
Via: Deadline
I can only go off the episodes that have aired, but I find it strange they would renew the show but fire the creator. I personally think is the best show of the new season but maybe it deviates later on.