Spencer Tracy was originally cast in the lead role, but withdrew due to ill health and concerns over the ability of co-star Suzy Parker. Tracy told reporters in November 1957 he had withdrawn from this film to star in The Last Hurrah (1958).
Diane Varsi had a mental breakdown during filming in late December 1957 and had to be hospitalized for a week.
Actor Charles Bronson had a bit uncredited role as one of the parking lot thugs that included Michael Pataki, Michael Morelli, and John Indrisano. At this juncture in his career, Bronson's bit uncredited role in this Gary Cooper film can only be explained by his loyalty to that actor, with whom he had become friendly during the filming of Vera Cruz and U.S.S. Teakettle (You're in the Navy Now). His flash appearance in this mixture of politics and tortured family relationships, from the John O'Hara best seller, must have been performed for a lark, and as a good luck salute to Cooper during a visit by Bronson to the Fox set.