Frances is a 21-year-old college student and spoken-word poet living in Dublin. Highly observant and intellectually sharp, she moves through her social world with an armor of ironic detachment, guarding her true feelings closely. She comes from a modest background in Ballina and frequently relies on a carefully curated image of invulnerability to manage her insecurities.

Bobbi is Frances's best friend, ex-girlfriend, and creative partner. She is a brash, outspoken college student from a wealthy family who confidently rejects traditional social scripts. Highly magnetic and principled, Bobbi easily commands attention in any room and holds the people around her to rigorous intellectual and moral standards.

Nick is a 32-year-old actor who works steadily in theater and film but has not reached major stardom. Handsome but fundamentally passive, he often fades into the background around his more dominant wife. He manages ongoing mental health issues and frequently uses his quiet demeanor as a way to avoid taking charge or causing conflict.

Melissa is a successful writer and photographer who lives an elegant, comfortable life in Dublin. Sophisticated and well-connected in the literary world, she easily draws younger creatives like Bobbi and Frances into her orbit. She presents a confident, bohemian exterior that masks the deeper personal anxieties beneath the surface of her marriage.

Philip is a fellow intern working alongside Frances at a literary agency. He is a polite, straightforward young man from a wealthy background who gives Frances a glimpse into a more conventional social life. He attends a play with Frances, contrasting sharply with her usual intense social dynamic.

Valerie is an influential figure in the publishing industry and a mentor to Melissa. She is a wealthy, intimidating woman who owns a vacation villa in France where she hosts her industry friends. She speaks bluntly and does not hesitate to make controversial or insensitive remarks in social settings.

Evelyn is a friend of Melissa and Nick who joins them for a summer holiday in France. She is a casual presence in the group's social dynamic, participating in their evening games and outings at the villa. She serves as a secondary host figure during the vacation.

Derek is Evelyn's partner and a friend of Nick and Melissa. He spends time at the French villa during the summer getaway, rounding out the adults' social circle during their vacation. He comfortably blends into the relaxed, wealthy vacation atmosphere alongside the rest of the group.