hard act to follow

1. Also, tough act to follow. An outstanding performance or individual. For example, Lucy was a terrific group leader—hers is a hard act to follow, or Bob's record is excellent—it will be a tough act to follow. This expression, dating from about 1900, was originally used for a particularly good vaudeville act that made the next act look poor by comparison. It soon was extended to other enterprises.

Example Sentences

Wang’s cancellation, however, meant another hard act to follow.

From Los Angeles Times

The obvious fact that Gustavo Dudamel is a hard act to follow is something that has been concerning for the Los Angeles Philharmonic the last two and a half years.

From Los Angeles Times

They had a very hard act to follow given Schmeichel's legendary status at a club where he played 398 times over eight seasons.

From BBC

In that respect, it was a hard act to follow.

From Los Angeles Times

BBC Culture reviewer Nicholas Barber said the sequel was a "solid" effort given that number one was "a hard act to follow".

From BBC