Despite the talent involved both on and off-screen, the film was a critical flop when first released in 1948. Ann Sheridan perceived that the failure was the result of her and Gary Cooper having no chemistry together as romantic leads.
Director Leo McCarey shot two different endings and let remarks by preview audiences determine which one to use. The outcome of the discarded ending is not known.
The band that accompanies Sam home was made up from 25 students from various Los Angeles high schools, according to contemporary articles in the entertainment press.
This was one of the top-grossing films of the year (#23), and revived the career of Gary Cooper with him signing a significant contract with Warner Bros.
"Lux Radio Theater" broadcast a 60 minute radio adaptation of the movie on September 25, 1950 with Ann Sheridan reprising her film role.