Unexpected Father 1939
"Sandy... wonder baby of "East Side of Heaven"... and three more laugh babies... on a hilarious lark!"
When Jimmy Hanley discovers his former dance partner has died and left behind a baby boy named Sandy, he steps up to care for the child, turning his bachelor lifestyle upside down.
Director: Charles Lamont
Cast
Baby Sandy
Sandy
Shirley Ross
Dianna Donovan
Dennis O'Keefe
Jimmy Hanley
Mischa Auer
Boris Bebenko
Joy Hodges
Peg - showgirl
Anne Gwynne
Kitty - showgirl
Anne Nagel
Beulah - showgirl
Donald Briggs
Allen Rand - theatre manager
Richard Lane
Leo Murphy - Booking Agent
Paul Guilfoyle
Ed Stone - Sandy's Uncle
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Unexpected Father (1939) about?
Jimmy Hanley inherits a baby after his dance partner's untimely death and must balance raising the child with his career. Chaos ensues as Jimmy and his roommate navigate parenthood while trying to save their dancing dreams.
Who directed Unexpected Father?
Unexpected Father was directed by Charles Lamont, known for his work in classic Hollywood comedies and dramas of the 1930s and 40s.
Who stars in Unexpected Father?
The film features Baby Sandy as the infant Sandy, Shirley Ross as Jimmy's girlfriend Diana, and Dennis O'Keefe as Jimmy himself, with Mischa Auer and Anne Gwynne in supporting roles.
Is Unexpected Father (1939) worth watching?
Unexpected Father is a charming blend of comedy and drama, offering lighthearted entertainment with a touch of heart. While IMDb didn't rate it, its nostalgic appeal and engaging cast make it a fun watch for fans of classic films.
How long is Unexpected Father?
Unexpected Father runs for 78 minutes, a perfect runtime for a breezy, engaging 1930s comedy.
About Unexpected Father (1939) — A 1930s Comedy-Drama About Unexpected Fatherhood
When Jimmy Hanley discovers his former dance partner has died and left behind a baby boy named Sandy, he steps up to care for the child, turning his bachelor lifestyle upside down. Sharing a chaotic apartment with his roommate Boris Bebenko—and now a teething infant—Sandy's arrival tests Jimmy's patience, his career as a dancer, and even his relationship with his girlfriend Diana. As measles quarantine forces Jimmy and Boris to miss a crucial audition, their comedic struggles with baby care reveal heartfelt lessons about responsibility and unexpected fatherhood.
Directed by Charles Lamont, this 1939 blend of drama and comedy stars Shirley Ross as Diana, Dennis O'Keefe as Jimmy, and Baby Sandy as the adorable chaos catalyst. The film captures the lively energy of classic Hollywood while exploring themes of parenthood, friendship, and the hilarious mishaps of raising a child. With Mischa Auer and Anne Gwynne rounding out the cast, Unexpected Father delivers charm, laughter, and a touch of warmth.
