Prince of Players
“Were the Whispers True?”
Synopsis
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.
Top Cast
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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"
Christopher Cook
Edwin Booth at 10
Mae Marsh
Witch in 'Macbeth' (uncredited)
Burt Mustin
Miner (uncredited)
Sarah Padden
Mary Todd Lincoln (uncredited)
Richard Deacon
Theatre Manager
Release History & Theatrical Window
January 11, 1955
Wide Cinema Exhibition
Key Information & Fast Facts
- Director
- Philip Dunne
- Screenplay & Story
- Moss Hart, Eleanor Ruggles
- Original Score
- Bernard Herrmann
- Original Title
- Prince of Players
- Country of Origin
- United States of America
- Spoken Languages
- English
- Runtime
- 1h 42m
- Production Studios
- 20th Century Fox
Creative Leadership & Key Crew
Philip Dunne
Moss Hart, Eleanor Ruggles
Bernard Herrmann
Philip Dunne
Department Leadership Roster
Philip Dunne
Director
Moss Hart
Writer
Philip Dunne
Producer
Bernard Herrmann
Original Music Composer
Production Stills & Gallery
Official cinematic photography and background stills for Prince of Players.
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War: American Civil War
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Frequently Asked Questions About Prince of Players
Quick factual answers about cast, synopsis, director, box office, and release information.
What is Prince of Players about?
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.
Who directed Prince of Players?
Prince of Players was directed by Philip Dunne.
Who stars in Prince of Players?
The principal cast of Prince of Players includes Richard Burton, Maggie McNamara, John Derek, Raymond Massey, Charles Bickford.
When was Prince of Players released and how long is it?
Prince of Players was released in 1955 with a total runtime of 1h 42m.
Who composed the musical score for Prince of Players?
The original motion picture soundtrack for Prince of Players was composed by Bernard Herrmann.
Is Prince of Players based on a book or true story?
Prince of Players is adapted from the following source material: Novel: "Eleanor Ruggles".