When philosophical country/western singer Larry "Lonesome" Rhodes (Andy Griffith) is "discovered" in the local lock-up by television talent coordinator Marcia Jeffries (Patricia Neal), she decides that Rhodes deserves a guest appearance on a TV variety show. The gangly, overly humble Rhodes is an instant sensation and he quickly ascends toward superstardom -- attracting fans, sponsors and endorsement deals -- until he is the most powerful and influential entertainer on the airwaves. Beloved by his public audience, they would never believe that he has turned into a scheming, power-hungry manipulator with Machiavellian political aspirations. Sound familiar?
If you're looking for answers on where we go from here, this film is for you.