A middle-aged Louisiana governor falls in love with a young stripper, which jeopardizes his political career and the radical policies which have made him a controversial figure.

Paul Newman
as Gov. Earl K. Long

Lolita Davidovich
as Blaze Starr

Jerry Hardin
as Thibodeaux

Gailard Sartain
as LaGrange

Jeffrey DeMunn
as Eldon Tuck

Garland Bunting
as Doc Ferriday

Richard Jenkins
as Picayune

Brandon Smith
as Arvin Deeter

Blaze Starr
as Lily

Glynn Rubin
as Crony Wife #2