Directed by William K. Howard and based on the novel McLeod’s Folly by Louis Bromfield, Johnny Come Lately is a heartfelt drama that showcases James Cagney in a rare, subdued role—far from his usual gangster persona. Produced by William Cagney, James’s brother, the film blends themes of redemption, press freedom, and small-town politics.
Plot Summary
Tom Richards (James Cagney), a wandering newspaperman with only a copy of Pickwick Papers and two dollars to his name, drifts into a town gripped by political corruption. He’s taken in by Vinnie McLeod (Grace George), a kind widow who owns the struggling local paper, The Shield & Banner. When Richards learns of the town’s crooked boss, W.M. Dougherty (Edward McNamara), he uses his journalistic skills to expose the rot and rally the townspeople.
As Richards battles the establishment, he also helps transform lives—including that of Gashouse Mary (Marjorie Main), a tough-talking ally, and Aida (Hattie McDaniel), Vinnie’s loyal housekeeper. The film ends with Richards moving on, having restored justice and dignity to the town.
Cast Highlights
- James Cagney as Tom Richards
- Grace George as Vinnie McLeod (her only film role)
- Marjorie Main as Gashouse Mary
- Hattie McDaniel as Aida
- Edward McNamara, Marjorie Lord, Robert Barrat, and William Henry in supporting roles
Behind-the-Scenes Trivia
- This was the first film produced by William Cagney Productions, launched in March 1943
- Grace George was a renowned stage actress, making her sole screen appearance here
- A radio adaptation aired on The Screen Guild Theater in 1948, with Cagney reprising his role
- The film was preserved in 2013 by the Academy Film Archive and UCLA Film & Television Archive
- When shown at the Victoria Theatre in Harlem, Hattie McDaniel received marquee billing alongside Cagney
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