In a decaying Hollywood mansion, Jane Hudson, a former child star, and her sister Blanche, a movie queen forced into retirement after a crippling accident, live in virtual isolation.

A divorced father in the film industry is suddenly in sole custody of his young daughter, who also wants to make a career in entertainment.

Peggy Pepper, a Georgia girl who wants to be a dramatic actress, goes to Hollywood and at first can find work only as a patsy for Billy Boone in slapstick comedies. Billy, however, soon helps Peggy to become both a serious actress and a star. Fame and wealth go to Peggy's head; she becomes vain and snubs Billy in favor of André, her romantic leading man. Peggy eventually comes down to earth, however, and acknowledges her love for the patient Billy....