Set during a bustling high-society scavenger hunt in Manhattan, a socialite named Irene Bullock stumbles upon Godfrey, a man living at the city dump. In a moment of whimsy, she decides to offer Godfrey the role of her family’s butler, a job he accepts despite his refined demeanor, which suggests a mysterious past. As Godfrey navigates his duties in the lavish but dysfunctional Bullock household, he observes the eccentric behavior of each family member: Irene's scatterbrained and doting mother, her irresponsible father on the brink of financial ruin, and her sister Cornelia, who views Godfrey with suspicion and disdain. Despite this madness, Godfrey manages to win over some family members while maintaining a calm and savvy presence amidst the chaos.

As he settles into his role, Godfrey becomes instrumental in guiding the Bullocks toward responsibility and accountability while keeping the details of his own past hidden. Through moments of heartfelt exchanges and comic mishaps, his genuine motives are hinted at as he subtly starts bringing about change within the household dynamics. Irene develops a growing affection for Godfrey, though he keeps her at arm's length to preserve his own secrecy. As the family faces potential financial disaster and internal tumult, Godfrey's true nature and intentions slowly come to light, unraveling a story that intertwines themes of redemption, identity, and love in surprising and charming ways.