A romantic musical of Magnolia Hawks who grew up on the riverboat, Cotton Blossom. When a snitch on board calls the police the leading lady, Julie (who's half African-American) and her white husband are forced to leave the show. Magnolia becomes the leading show boat attraction and a gambler, Gaylor Ravenal, the leading man. They fall in love and marry but soon Magnolia must face reality as she is left alone penniless and pregnant.