Who is the single, greatest influence in George's life as noted in the motion picture, Yankee Doodle Dandy?

George's dad, Jerry, is probably the single greatest influence on George throughout his career. In the earliest scenes, we see that Jerry is a loving husband and father when he rushes home when George is born. Additionally, Jerry reprimands his children, especially George, when they do not behave as they should, but he never hurts them in any way. Jerry is an honest, caring man, who believes that the wisdom he gives George is one of the most powerful legacies he could leave.

Jerry does everything possible to protect and care for his family. The Four Cohans enjoy each other's company, and George appreciates his father's love. When talking to the President, George describes his father in glowing terms and expresses his happiness to have performed with his family every day. Jerry is the all-around, good guy who simply does his best to enjoy life and provide for his family.