This biopic follows the story of Shakespearean actor Edwin Booth and his rise to fame. Edwin's career begins when he replaces his alcoholic father, the great actor Junius Brutus Booth, in a production of "Richard III" after Junius forgets his lines. As an adult, Edwin performs many lead roles and sparks a rivalry with his brother, John Wilkes. But after his brief time as a celebrity, Edwin's career is cut short by family tragedy.
| Actor | Role |
|---|---|
 Richard BurtonEdwin Booth | Edwin Booth |
 Maggie McNamaraMary Devlin Booth | Mary Devlin Booth |
 John DerekJohn Wilkes Booth | John Wilkes Booth |
 Raymond MasseyJunius Brutus Booth | Junius Brutus Booth |
 Charles BickfordDave Prescott | Dave Prescott |
 Elizabeth SellarsAsia Booth | Asia Booth |
 Eleanor AudleyMrs. Montchesington | Mrs. Montchesington |
 Ian KeithGhost of Hamlet's father in "Hamlet" | Ghost of Hamlet's father in "Hamlet" |
 Eva Le GallienneGertrude in "Hamlet" | Gertrude in "Hamlet" |
| CChristopher CookEdwin Booth at 10 | Edwin Booth at 10 |
 Mae MarshWitch in 'Macbeth' (uncredited) | Witch in 'Macbeth' (uncredited) |
 Burt MustinMiner (uncredited) | Miner (uncredited) |
 Sarah PaddenMary Todd Lincoln (uncredited) | Mary Todd Lincoln (uncredited) |
 Richard DeaconTheatre Manager | Theatre Manager |