Some of the film's episodes are based on fact but the story is extremely simplified, with people disguised or combined into single characters.

The Columbia Pictures production was written by Sidney Buchman (uncredited), Harry Chandlee, Stephen Longstreet, and Andrew Solt.

Stage-struck Asa Yoelson wants to sing in burlesque performer Steve Martin's act.

Al succeeds with the minstrel troupe and is invited to join a Broadway show (thanks to Martin, behind the scenes).

Julie does not love him immediately, but Al refuses to take no for an answer, and she eventually agrees to consider it.

Al electrifies the show world with his first feature film, The Jazz Singer, and eagerly signs for more movies.

Julie becomes a movie star, but eventually can't stand any more of Al's nonstop, show-biz lifestyle.

Ruby Keeler, Jolson's third wife, refused to allow her name to be used, so the writers used an alias, "Julie Benson".

Al Jolson, determined to appear on screen somehow, persuaded the producer to film him instead of Larry Parks for the blackface "Swanee" number.

Jolson is seen entirely in long shot; he performs on a theater runway, recreating his famous fluttering dance step.

[8] Larry Parks became a full-fledged star in major productions, until his career was derailed by blacklisting after he admitted to having been a member of the Communist Party before the House Unamerican Activities Committee in 1951.