James Stewart as George Bailey, Donna Reed as Mary Hatch, and Lionel Barrymore as Mr. Potter star in Frank Capra’s 1946 Christmas classic It’s a Wonderful Life.
Main cast
- George BaileyJames StewartMain
- Mary Hatch BaileyDonna ReedMain
- Henry F. PotterLionel BarrymoreMain
- Clarence Odbody (Angel Second Class)Henry TraversMain
Supporting cast
- Uncle Billy BaileyThomas MitchellSupp
- Violet BickGloria GrahameSupp
- Ernie the Taxicab DriverFrank FaylenSupp
- Bert the PolicemanWard BondSupp
- Mr. Gower (the druggist)H. B. WarnerSupp
- Mrs. Bailey (George’s mother)Beulah BondiSupp
- Peter ‘Pa’ BaileySamuel S. HindsSupp
- Harry Bailey (George’s brother)Todd KarnsSupp
- Ruth Dakin Bailey (Harry’s wife)Virginia PattonSupp
Guest & voice
- Janet Bailey (George’s daughter)Carol CoombsSupp
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About this cast
It’s a Wonderful Life is a 1946 American Christmas drama directed by Frank Capra. The film follows despairing businessman George Bailey, who is shown by his guardian angel what life would have been like if he had never existed. The lead cast includes James Stewart, Donna Reed, and Lionel Barrymore.
FAQs
Who plays George Bailey in It’s a Wonderful Life?
James Stewart plays the lead role of George Bailey.
Who plays Mary Hatch in It’s a Wonderful Life?
Donna Reed plays Mary Hatch, who later becomes George’s wife.
Who plays Mr. Potter in It’s a Wonderful Life?
Lionel Barrymore plays the villainous Mr. Potter.
Who plays the angel Clarence in It’s a Wonderful Life?
Henry Travers plays Clarence Odbody, the angel sent to help George.
Is It’s a Wonderful Life based on a true story or a book?
It is based on a short story by Philip Van Doren Stern called ‘The Greatest Gift’, first published as a pamphlet in 1943.
Sources & where to watch: IMDb · Wikipedia · Where to watch (JustWatch UK) · Updated June 2026