Bob Wallace: A cynical and world-weary entertainer who has had a strained relationship with his ex-wife, Betty Haynes, and their daughters. He finds a way to put his bitterness aside to put on a successful Christmas show.
Phil Davis: A charming and womanizing entertainer who is a close friend of Bob. He finds a newfound sense of responsibility and understanding when he meets Judy Haynes.
Betty Haynes: Bob's ex-wife who is initially portrayed as resentful and bitter toward him. She eventually softens and realizes the strength of her feelings for Bob.
Judy Haynes: Betty and Bob's younger daughter who develops a sweet romance with Phil. She brings out a caring side of Phil that he did not know existed.
Susan Waverly: A retired Army general and the owner of the Columbia Inn where Bob and Phil perform. She has lost her Christmas spirit after the death of her husband but regains it with the help of Bob and Phil's Christmas show.
Rhoda Waverly: Susan's granddaughter and a naive young woman. She is infatuated with Phil but eventually realizes that her true feelings lie with Bob.
Ralph Sheldrake: Susan's business partner who is portrayed as a villain due to his greedy and manipulative nature. He tries to sabotage Bob and Phil's Christmas show but is ultimately unsuccessful.