Joe Clay is a fictional character from the 1956 film The Man with the Golden Arm, directed by Otto Preminger. He is portrayed by actor Frank Sinatra and is a struggling jazz drummer who battles addiction to heroin. The film explores his challenges as he tries to overcome his addiction and rebuild his life. In the story, Joe's relationships with other characters, including his wife Zosh and his friend Mickey, highlight the impact of addiction on personal connections. The film is notable for its realistic portrayal of drug addiction and its consequences, making it a significant work in American cinema.