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.

Genres

Cast

Richard Burton

Edwin Booth

Maggie McNamara

Mary Devlin Booth

John Derek

John Wilkes Booth

Raymond Massey

Junius Brutus Booth

Charles Bickford

Dave Prescott

Elizabeth Sellars

Asia Booth

Eleanor Audley

Mrs. Montchesington

Ian Keith

Ghost of Hamlet's father in "Hamlet"

Eva Le Gallienne

Gertrude in "Hamlet"

Mae Marsh

Witch in 'Macbeth' (uncredited)

Burt Mustin

Miner (uncredited)

Sarah Padden

Mary Todd Lincoln (uncredited)