Shadow is a physically imposing but naturally quiet man who has just finished a three-year prison sentence. His hopes for a peaceful post-release life are shattered by the sudden death of his wife in a car crash. Rational and deeply skeptical, he relies on coin tricks to ground himself and struggles to process the impossible events occurring around him. He accepts a mysterious job offer out of sheer lack of alternatives.

An elderly, glass-eyed traveler who wears pale suits and possesses an unnatural amount of knowledge about other people. He is a smooth-talking con artist gathering associates for a vague but massive upcoming conflict. He operates with a mix of jovial charm and ruthless manipulation.

Laura is Shadow's wife, whose sudden death in a car crash derails his post-prison plans. Following a supernatural event at her grave, she returns to the mortal world in a partially revived state. She feels a profound need to protect Shadow and attempts to maintain her connection to him despite her physical condition.

The leader of the new American powers, directing a massive coordination effort against the older generation of deities. He operates strictly behind the scenes, issuing orders to his foot soldiers and attempting to negotiate terms on his own conditions.

A gruff, dark-humored man living in a cramped Chicago apartment with three sisters. He works in a local abattoir, finding a modern outlet for his traditional skills with a sledgehammer. He is bitter about his fading influence but possesses a rigid sense of honor.

A tall, belligerent man with red hair who loudly claims to be a leprechaun. He is quick to anger, drinks heavily, and goads strangers into physical altercations. He possesses genuine magical abilities, pulling gold coins from thin air.

Shadow's best friend and the owner of the Muscle Farm gym. He promises Shadow a stable job upon his release from prison. His sudden death in a car crash alongside Laura sets off the chain of events that leaves Shadow entirely unmoored.

Robbie's widow, living in Eagle Point. She is overwhelmed by grief and fury following the car accident that killed her husband. Her volatile emotional state causes her to lash out at those connected to the tragedy.

The youngest of the three Zorya sisters, representing the night. She spends her time watching the sky and holds a quiet, ethereal presence compared to her older sisters. She provides Shadow with an unexpected form of magical protection.

An older Black man with a penchant for brightly colored, checkered suits and cigars. He is an engaging storyteller who tries to ease tensions among his associates with humorous anecdotes. Despite his small physical stature, he holds significant respect among his peers.

A tall, scholarly man who co-owns a funeral home in Cairo, Illinois. He acts as an archivist, constantly writing accounts of historical figures and immigrants arriving in America. He provides a safe harbor for Shadow during his travels.

Mr. Ibis's partner at the funeral home, taking on the practical duties of preparing the dead. He has a sharp tongue and an intense demeanor, evaluating the worth of those he encounters.

A college student studying liberal arts who works at a coffee house. She is highly opinionated, chatty, and fiercely independent, providing Shadow with a grounded human connection. She holds a strong interest in history and myth.

A grifter from Minnesota who shares a cell with Shadow during his incarceration. He provides Shadow with books on history and mythology, helping him pass the time. He maintains a calm, observant presence in the harsh prison environment.

An elderly, grandfatherly figure who serves as the unofficial welcoming committee for the town of Lakeside. He drives a vintage car and organizes local community events, including the annual car-on-the-ice raffle. He is deeply invested in the prosperity of his town.

A well-meaning local police officer in Lakeside. He is deeply protective of his community and its residents, performing his duties with a mix of authority and genuine care. He harbors quiet romantic feelings for his neighbor.

A resident of Lakeside recovering from a difficult past relationship. She is a dedicated mother who finds the long winters in the town challenging. She gradually opens up to the new members of her community.

A young, acne-ridden figure representing modern advancements. He relies entirely on intimidation and his network of enforcers. Despite his immense influence, he is highly anxious and struggles to process events that fall outside his analytical worldview.

A gray-suited operative working for the new powers. He approaches his violent job with bureaucratic detachment, tracking down leads and attempting to capture targets with emotionless precision.

A lush, vibrant woman who has adapted more successfully to modern America than her peers. Because her traditional celebrations have merged with contemporary holidays, she maintains a comfortable lifestyle, though she bristles at her true origins being forgotten.

An Indigenous American culture hero who views the incoming conflict with extreme skepticism. He understands the fundamental nature of the American land better than the imported figures and prefers to stay entirely out of their disputes.

An ancient figure of love and desire struggling to survive in modern America. Desperate for worship and connection, she takes dangerous risks in her profession to sustain herself.