Adam Shankman is a name that became widely known, especially for his frequent appearances as a judge on the hit show So You Think You Can Dance? (Fox, 2005–present). But long before he earned a spot in living rooms across America, Adam Shankman was already building an impressive and diverse career in entertainment. Starting out in the 1980s, Adam Shankman first made his mark as a dancer in music videos, gradually transitioning into choreography—a field where his talent quickly shone. His big break behind the camera came with the romantic comedy The Wedding Planner (2001), starring Jennifer Lopez, which marked Adam Shankman’s debut as a feature film director.
It didn’t take long for Hollywood to recognize Adam Shankman’s knack for comedy, leading him to direct major stars like Steve Martin in successful film projects. Yet, despite his success in lighthearted fare, Adam Shankman always maintained a deep connection to musical theater. This passion brought him back to his roots with vibrant cinematic adaptations of Broadway favorites—most notably Hairspray (2007) and Rock of Ages (2012)—both of which showcased his dynamic vision and flair for large-scale production numbers.
Alongside his work in film, Adam Shankman remained active in television, directing memorable episodes of the popular musical series Glee (Fox, 2009–2015). In addition to directing, Adam Shankman expanded his influence as a producer, taking on a wide array of genres—from the supernatural thriller Premonition (2007) to high-profile events like the 2010 Academy Awards broadcast. Over the years, Adam Shankman has proven himself to be not just a versatile creative force, but also a lasting presence across multiple platforms in the entertainment industry.
When it comes to Adam Shankman’s career in film, there’s a pretty noticeable gap between his highest and lowest rated works. Adam Shankman really hit his stride with Hairspray back in 2007—a vibrant, energetic musical that earned widespread acclaim and remains the standout in Adam Shankman’s filmography. Critics and audiences alike praised the movie for its charm, catchy music, and strong performances, making it easily the most celebrated project Adam Shankman has directed. On the flip side, Adam Shankman also faced some criticism with Status Update, released in 2018. That one didn’t resonate as well, landing as his lowest rated film to date. While every filmmaker has highs and lows, Adam Shankman’s range is clear—from a colorful, beloved adaptation like Hairspray to a less successful teen comedy years later. Still, Adam Shankman continues to be a notable name in the industry.