The Goodbye Girl Poster

The Goodbye Girl 1977

★ 6.9181 votes111 min📅 1977-11-27

"Thank you Neil Simon for making us laugh at falling in love... again."

In *The Goodbye Girl (1977)*, a charming comedy-drama directed by Herbert Ross, a once-thriving dancer finds herself unexpectedly sharing her apartment—and her life—with a brash off-Broadway actor after her boyfriend abandons her and their young daughter.

Director: Herbert Ross

Cast

Richard Dreyfuss
Richard Dreyfuss
Elliot Garfield
Marsha Mason
Marsha Mason
Paula McFadden
Quinn Cummings
Quinn Cummings
Lucy McFadden
Paul Benedict
Paul Benedict
Mark
Barbara Rhoades
Barbara Rhoades
Donna
Theresa Merritt
Theresa Merritt
Mrs. Crosby
Michael Shawn
Ronnie
Patricia Pearcy
Patricia Pearcy
Rhonda
Gene Castle
Assistant Choreographer
Marilyn Sokol
Marilyn Sokol
Linda

Frequently Asked Questions

What is The Goodbye Girl (1977) about?

The film follows Paula, an unemployed dancer left stranded when her live-in partner suddenly moves out. With nowhere else to go, she and her ten-year-old daughter reluctantly share their apartment with a struggling actor named Elliot, whose own life is in upheaval. Together, they navigate the awkwardness of newfound roommates, clashing personalities, and the slow-burning romance that neither saw coming.

Who directed The Goodbye Girl?

Herbert Ross, known for his work in both drama and comedy, directed The Goodbye Girl. His direction brings a natural balance of humor and emotion to this classic 1970s film.

Who stars in The Goodbye Girl?

Richard Dreyfuss and Marsha Mason lead the cast, with standout performances from Quinn Cummings as Paula's daughter and Paul Benedict as the eccentric neighbor.

Is The Goodbye Girl (1977) worth watching?

With its stellar cast and blend of comedy and drama, The Goodbye Girl is a heartfelt gem that holds up surprisingly well. Richard Dreyfuss won an Academy Award for his role, and the film's themes of resilience and reinvention make it a rewarding watch for fans of character-driven stories.

How long is The Goodbye Girl?

The Goodbye Girl runs for 111 minutes, or just under two hours, offering a tightly paced blend of humor and drama.

🎥 Trailer

About The Goodbye Girl (1977) — A Heartfelt Comedy-Drama About Second Chances and Unexpected Love

In *The Goodbye Girl (1977)*, a charming comedy-drama directed by Herbert Ross, a once-thriving dancer finds herself unexpectedly sharing her apartment—and her life—with a brash off-Broadway actor after her boyfriend abandons her and their young daughter. As the trio navigates the chaos of unexpected cohabitation, their clashing personalities collide with heartfelt moments, leading to a story that's as much about resilience as it is about romance. Set against the vibrant backdrop of 1970s New York, the film balances humor and sincerity, exploring themes of second chances and the unpredictability of love.

Starring Oscar-winning actor Richard Dreyfuss in a standout role, alongside Emmy-winning Marsha Mason, the film captures the essence of finding connection in the most unlikely places. With sharp dialogue and authentic performances, *The Goodbye Girl* remains a timeless tale of laughter, heartache, and the messy beauty of starting over.