Archie Lee Meighan is a failing cotton gin owner who is married to Baby Doll, a 19-year old childlike beauty whose father arranged the marriage for financial reasons. As Archie awaits the arrival of Baby Doll's 20th birthday, the day that they are supposed to consummate their marriage, he faces interference from business rival Silva Vacarro, who plots to seduce Baby Doll away from Meighan.
Karl Malden
as Archie Lee Meighan
Carroll Baker
as Baby Doll Meighan
Eli Wallach
as Silva Vacarro
Mildred Dunnock
as Aunt Rose Comfort
Lonny Chapman
as Rock
Eades Hogue
as Town Marshal
Noah Williamson
as Deputy
R.G. Armstrong
as Townsman Sid (voice) (uncredited)
Madeleine Sherwood
as Nurse in Doctor's Office (uncredited)
Rip Torn
as The Dentist (uncredited)
