Hazel is a third-grade teacher in Portland, Oregon. She possesses a vibrant, eccentric personality that she refuses to dull for anyone, openly embracing her awkward moments and unique habits. Though she occasionally worries that her energetic nature makes her undatable, she seeks a connection built on radical authenticity.

Josh is a physical therapist who values routine and dependability. Shaped by his Korean American heritage and strong familial loyalty, he presents a calm and composed exterior. Reconnecting with Hazel disrupts his controlled world, forcing him to reevaluate his approach to relationships and his tolerance for chaos.

Emily is a fifth-grade teacher, Josh's perceptive younger sister, and Hazel's loyal best friend. She often acts as an enthusiastic bridge to push the people she cares about together. She openly disapproves of her brother's current relationship and advocates for a closer bond between him and Hazel.

Dave is the principal at Riverview public school and Emily's husband. He is open-minded and sensitive to the people around him. He recognizes the value in Hazel's unique approach to life, making him willing to hire her at his school despite her unconventional demeanor.

Aileen is Hazel's mother, a tall, blonde woman who models joyful nonconformity. Following a marriage to a man who criticized her for being embarrassing, she fully embraces her true self. She provides a safe, nonjudgmental harbor for Hazel, encouraging her daughter to never suppress her vibrant personality for a romantic partner.

Tabitha is Josh's long-distance girlfriend who lives in Los Angeles. She prioritizes superficial appearances and online aesthetics, maintaining a relationship with Josh that lacks deep emotional intimacy. Her unreliability acts as a persistent source of tension within Josh's social circle.

Tyler is Hazel's college ex-boyfriend who is currently in recovery. He views Hazel's wild persona as entertainment and expects her to conform to traditional relationship standards. He serves as a painful reminder of conditional affection for Hazel.

Esther is Josh and Emily's mother. She upholds traditional Korean familial values and appreciates dependability. She maintains a warm but observant presence in her children's lives.

Dax is Josh's old high school friend, a veterinarian who breeds Shetland ponies. He adheres strictly to social conventions and possesses a highly judgmental attitude toward anything he deems abnormal.

Adam is a quiet former football player. Josh sets him up on a blind double date with Hazel, but he struggles to hold his own against Hazel's competitive energy during the trivia contest.

Cali is a school administrator set up with Josh by Hazel. During their double date, she finds herself sidelined when Josh and Hazel team up for trivia.

Sasha is a yoga instructor whom Hazel sets up with Josh. She is agreeable and enthusiastic about group outings but struggles to form a meaningful one-on-one connection with Josh.