Daniel Hillard is no ordinary father, so when he learns his ex-wife needs a housekeeper, he applies for the job. With the perfect wig, a little makeup and a dress for all occasions, he becomes Mrs. Doubtfire, a devoted British housekeeper who is hired on the spot. Free to be the "woman" he never knew he could be, the disguised Daniel creates a whole new life with his entire family.

After befriending American Tommy Randall in Shanghai, tiny Chinese orphan Ching-Ching falls asleep in Tommy's car, which soon becomes cargo on a ship bound for San Francisco. Along the way, Ching-Ching plays matchmaker to Tommy and Susan Parker, who eventually marry and adopt her. But when the couple's clashing personalities lead them to divorce court, the one-time orphan must again work her magic to try to keep her new family together.