An independent woman with a doctorate in psychology who seeks to understand Vivian's connection to her late father.

A high-strung war veteran with PTSD who develops a meaningful friendship with Vivian in New York.

Vivian’s eccentric grandmother who nurtures her interest in sewing and drama.

Vivian's father, an industrialist with a mining operation, who struggles to understand his daughter.

Vivian's mother, a horsewoman who favors her son and has little interest in Vivian.

Vivian's competent and authoritarian older brother serving in World War II.

Vivian's former fiancé, who uses his military enlistment to escape their engagement.

Vivian’s free-spirited aunt who owns the Lily Theater and produces plays for the immigrant community.

Peg's charming yet unreliable husband, a brilliant writer who pens the hit play City of Girls.

Peg’s pragmatic British office manager, devoted to Peg and protective of Vivian.

A glamorous showgirl who befriends Vivian and embarks on nightly adventures in New York.

The uninspired playwright who finds relief in relinquishing his duties for City of Girls to Billy.

The theater’s black composer from a prominent Harlem family who relocates to France after the war.

A young actor and Vivian’s first significant love interest who plays a lead role in City of Girls.

A celebrated British actress who finds success in New York and becomes the star of City of Girls.

Edna's husband and an inept actor whose actions lead to a scandal involving Vivian.