Blanche is a 30-year-old former English teacher who travels to New Orleans after losing her family plantation, Belle Reve, and her teaching position. Highly educated and deeply anxious, she hides her fading youth under dim lighting and covers exposed bulbs with paper lanterns. She brings a sense of grand southern gentility to the rough working-class flat, frequently clashing with her brother-in-law. Her sophisticated exterior masks severe trauma from her past, including the tragic suicide of her young husband.

Stella is Blanche's 25-year-old younger sister who left behind her privileged Mississippi upbringing for a vibrant, unpredictable life in the French Quarter. She is pregnant and deeply infatuated with her husband, finding excitement in his aggressive physical nature. Though she cares for Blanche and attempts to accommodate her nervous habits, she firmly defends her own lifestyle choices. She frequently acts as a mediator when the cramped flat's tensions boil over.

Stanley is an ex-military factory worker whose life revolves around male friendships, poker, bowling, and physical dominance. He operates as the unquestioned authority of his household, reacting with explosive anger when his control is challenged. Highly suspicious of Blanche's refined manners, he immediately investigates her claims about the lost family fortune. He resents his sister-in-law's extended visit and actively works to uncover her secrets.

Mitch is a factory worker who regularly participates in Stanley's poker nights. Unlike his rougher friends, he lives with his sick mother and displays a gentler, more courteous demeanor. Having previously lost a romantic partner, he recognizes a shared sorrow in Blanche and pursues a courtship with her. He is attentive and respectful, offering a clear alternative to Stanley's aggressive behavior.

Eunice is the Kowalskis' upstairs neighbor and landlord. She is a practical, loud, and resilient woman who perfectly understands the chaotic rhythm of the Elysian Fields neighborhood. She regularly argues with her husband over his suspected infidelity but always reconciles shortly after. She serves as an essential support system for Stella, offering her a safe place to retreat when Stanley becomes dangerous.

Steve is Eunice's husband and a steady participant in the Kowalskis' social circle. He is frequently seen engaging in rowdy poker games or drinking at the local bar. His domestic life mirrors Stanley's in its loud arguments and rapid reconciliations.

The Mexican Woman is a blind street vendor who walks the French Quarter wrapped in a shawl. She sells flowers traditionally used for funerals, announcing them softly in Spanish. Her sudden appearance startles Blanche during a highly emotional confession.

Shep is a wealthy Texas oilman who briefly dated Blanche during their college years. Though he never physically appears in New Orleans, he occupies a massive space in Blanche's mind as a potential savior. She frequently drafts messages to him, hoping his financial success will rescue her from her current poverty.

Pablo is one of Stanley's coworkers and a regular participant in the poker games. He wears vividly colored shirts and contributes to the loud, competitive atmosphere of the men's social gatherings.

A young newspaper collector for the Evening Star who stops by the Kowalski residence on a rainy afternoon. He is anxious to leave but finds himself detained by Blanche's sudden, aggressive flirtation.