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There is a first time for everything. First kiss, first bicycle ride… and, of course, that all-important first time on a network TV show.

That’s what actor Jaime Cepero had a few weeks ago. He’s one of the young stars in the new NBC musical drama “Smash,” which airs Mondays at 10 p.m. The show is a big hit — and so is he.

Jaime plays Ellis, assistant to the composer whose musical score propels the play within a play on “Smash.” Of course, that only happens after Jamie (and this is why the New York Times called the character “devious” and “ingratiating”) sneaks a video of a private test on to YouTube. (There is a lesson in there somewhere for young people, but probably not a good one.)

JAIME CEPERO podcast excerpt: “Life has been strange (since Smash debuted). People have recognized me and asked me to take pictures with them. I don’t know if I’ll ever get used to it, but it’s cool.”

This is, for all intents and purposes, the biggest of big breaks for Jaime, whose resume boasts New York workshop productions, regional theater and the 75th anniversary national tour of “Porgy & Bess,” but nothing quite like appearing before millions on one of the most hyped TV shows in several seasons.

Is he nervous? Let’s find out.

Jaime Cepero IMDB • Twitter • Smash website on NBC