The story revolves around Magnolia Hawks, the innocent daughter of a show boat owner, who becomes the new star after her friend Julie LaVerne is forced to leave due to a scandal. Magnolia falls in love with the show's new male star, Gaylord Ravenal, and they marry against her mother's wishes. Their life is marked by highs and lows, depending on Gaylord's luck in gambling. When he leaves her, Magnolia must start anew by returning to the stage, persevering like the iconic song "Old Man River" suggests.
Show Boat
On a show boat, a captain's daughter discovers her talent and rises to fame as the leading lady, causing friction with her mother who had other aspirations for her.
