After a successful baseball career in college and as a coach in the military, Jackie Robinson (playing himself) attracts the attention of Major League Baseball’s Branch Rickey (Minor Watson). Rickey wants Robinson to play in the minor leagues, believing he can become the first player to break the color barrier and play in the majors. The only catch: He is forbidden from defending himself against racial bigotry. Supported by his wife (Ruby Dee), Robinson is steadfast in his determination to win.
Directed by Alfred E. Green
Written by Arthur Mann & Lawrence Taylor
Cinematography by Ernest Laszlo
Cast:
Jackie Robinson – Himself
Ruby Dee – Rae Robinson
Minor Watson – Branch Rickey
Louise Beavers – Jackie’s mother
Richard Lane – Clay Hopper
Harry Shannon – Frank Shaughnessy
Ben Lessy – Shorty
Bill Spaulding – Himself
Billy Wayne – Clyde Sukeforth
Joel Fluellen – Mack Robinson
Bernie Hamilton – Ernie
Kenny Washington – Tigers Manager
Pat Flaherty – Karpen
Larry McGrath – Umpire
Howard Louis MacNeely – Jackie as a boy
George Dockstader – Bill
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• Biography • Drama • Sport
