What is the role of the man who becomes Bill's true partner?
In 1930, entertainer Bill Miller believes that he has the ability to become a solo performer.  He and his partner Ben Bailey split up and go their separate ways.  Miller fails miserably, and his manager Leo Lyman thinks it would be a good idea to perform with a "stooge."  Enter Ted Rogers, who plays an accident-prone foil for Miller.  Soon afterwards, Miller's act is a hit.
Along the way, Rogers is unaware that he is the real reason the act is a success and becomes very loyal to Miller.  Even though he receives no billing, he defends his "partner" when others suggest he is being taken advantage of by Miller.
Eventually, even Miller's wife Mary is ashamed of his treatment of Rogers, going so far as to threaten him with divorce.  Miller is more determined than ever to prove he can make it as a single and fires Rogers, but promptly regrets his decision as his first performance as a true solo artist flops.  He addresses the audience, apologizing and admitting that the "stooge" was the true heart and soul of the act.  Rogers, who is sitting in the audience, comes to his rescue by joining him onstage and the two finally become true partners.
stooge