Ted Kramer, a workaholic advertising executive, returns home one day to find that his wife, Joanna, has left him, abandoning both Ted and their young son, Billy. Ted is forced to adjust to single parenthood and take on responsibilities he has neglected, including the care of his son. Despite initial struggles in adapting to his new role, Ted begins to develop a deeper bond with Billy, finding fulfillment and joy in their growing father-son relationship. The challenges of single parenthood lead Ted to reassess his priorities, placing his son's well-being and their relationship above his career for the first time.

Just as Ted and Billy establish a new normalcy and deepen their connection, Joanna returns, seeking custody of Billy. This ignites a legal battle that threatens to tear apart the father-son bond Ted and Billy have carefully built. The emotional stakes of the custody fight push all involved to confront their biases, fears, and desire for love and family. The legal struggle brings to light the complexities and changing perceptions of parenting roles, challenging traditional notions of what it means to be a good parent.