James Earl Jones as Jack Jefferson

Jane Alexander as Eleanor

Lou Gilbert as Goldie

Joel Fluellen as Tick

Chester Morris as Pop Weaver

Robert Webber as Dixon

Marlene Warfield as Clara

Hal Holbrook as Cameron

Beah Richards as Mama Tiny

Moses Gunn as Scipio

Larry Pennell as Brady

Marcel Dalio as French Promoter

Manuel Padilla Jr. as Paco

Scatman Crothers as Carnival Barker (uncredited)

R.G. Armstrong as Captain Dan

Rodolfo Acosta as El Jefe

Ernest Anderson as Mrs. Jefferson's Friend (uncredited)