Famous Shakespearian actor Barry Carleton is unable to cope with his success, falls into drunkenness, and causes his wife to leave him and then to bring up their daughter, Rose, in the belief that her father is dead. Years later, when applying to play again the role of Lear, he is assigned to be dresser for Gilbert Gordon and learns that the production's backer seeks Rose's favor by casting her as Cordelia. On opening night Gilbert, who knows the truth, gets drunk; and Barry goes on in his place. The performance is a great success, Barry is reunited with his wife, and Rose is engaged to Gilbert.—AFI