The protagonist and a private detective. He investigates multiple murders and a stolen jade necklace while navigating a web of deceit involving Helen Grayle, Moose Malloy, and Jules Amthor. He gets temporarily blinded during a shootout but ultimately exposes the truth and develops a romantic connection with Ann Grayle.
Young man in love with Hermia who flees to the forest to elope, is mistakenly enchanted by Puck to love Helena, and is later restored to his true feelings to marry Hermia.
James Lee Bartlow is a college professor and bestselling author whose book is acquired by Jonathan Shields for adaptation. Persuaded by his wife Rosemary, he moves to Hollywood to write the screenplay. After her death and Shields's failed directorial effort, he breaks with Shields, later writes a novel based on his marriage, and wins a Pulitzer Prize.
Brad is Polly's neighbor and boyfriend, a gifted songwriter and singer who offers Barney $15,000 to finance the stage production while refusing to perform. He is secretly a millionaire's son, but publicity forces him into the lead role; despite family opposition, he marries Polly.
John is a family man and insurance adjuster whose boredom leads him to recover Mona's boat personally. He begins an affair with Mona, fights MacDonald, kills Bill in self-defense, then confesses everything to Sue and the district attorney while trying to preserve his damaged marriage.
Nephew and subordinate of Cedric Ames who manages his business affairs. He examines the books of a dress shop Colleen manages to ensure financial viability, eventually convincing her to keep it open. He falls in love with Colleen, proposes marriage, and ultimately reconciles with her on an ocean liner.
Mark is a successful 35-year-old Hollywood screenwriter whose creativity has faltered since winning an Academy Award. He reluctantly takes Susan into his apartment, then impulsively marries her to protect her from detention. His engagement to Isabella deteriorates as he gradually realizes that he loves Susan but fears their age difference.
Jimmy McDonald is an office worker whose ambitious slogan entry becomes the center of the story. After a fake telegram convinces others that he has won, he receives a promotion, spends merchandise on credit, and faces exposure. His relationship with Betsy Casey and responsibility toward his mother motivate his dreams, while the genuine contest result ultimately vindicates him.
A passenger on the liner who discovers that Marjory's supposedly valuable bracelet is paste, exposing her as a pretender. Rather than turn her in, he befriends her and tries to find her a suitable wealthy husband. His help leads to Alfred's proposal, but Pete becomes jealous and is later delighted when Marjory returns alone.
Tommy is one of the performers featured in the film's elaborate musical sequences at the Wonder Bar. The plot specifically includes him among the performers of the club's songs and production numbers, placing him within the entertainment ensemble alongside Al Wonder, Liane Renaud, Inez, and Harry.
The juvenile lead actor in the musical. He forms an instant attraction to newcomer Peggy Sawyer after she unexpectedly enters his dressing room. He eventually confesses his romantic feelings to her, and they share a kiss before the premiere.
A handsome medical student working as a hotel desk clerk who becomes the paid escort for Ann Prentiss and eventually falls in love with her.
Dick Powell has 113 screen credits in a career dating back to 1932. Signature works include Dick Powell's Zane Grey Theatre, Murder, My Sweet, Susan Slept Here. Explore the interactive character relationship maps on each title page to trace how their roles connect across franchises.
