In 1962 Baltimore, teenager Tracy Turnblad dreams of dancing on "The Corny Collins Show," a popular local TV dance program. Despite being ridiculed for her plus-sized figure, Tracy's enthusiasm and talent earn her a spot on the show, making her an overnight sensation. Tracy's newfound fame brings tension with reigning dance queen Amber Von Tussle and her scheming mother, who will stop at nothing to reclaim Amber’s spotlight. At the same time, Tracy becomes friends with Motormouth Maybelle, an African-American DJ who introduces her to the struggles for racial integration.

Tracy advocates for integrating "The Corny Collins Show," drawing the ire of the show's producer and sparking civil rights protests. Tracy's activism leads to various escapades and conflicts as she rallies her friends and family to champion the cause. With a dynamic mix of 60s pop culture, dance numbers, and social commentary, the story examines issues of body image, racial equality, and the power of youth to instigate change.