Maddy is a college-age woman attending New York University who experiences extreme fluctuations between high energy and severe depression. She initially lacks direction in her studies and feels disconnected from the structured, traditional life her family expects. Unsure of how to manage her overwhelming emotions, she masks her inner chaos while searching for an authentic sense of identity and purpose.

Maddy's mother places a high value on traditional success and social appearances. She spends significant time at the local country club with her second husband, focusing heavily on curating a conventional life for her children. She reacts to Maddy's symptoms with embarrassment and denial, pushing her daughter to behave normally rather than attempting to understand her internal struggles.

Emily is Maddy's older sister by five years and serves as the family's picture of conventional achievement. She maintains a traditional lifestyle with her fiancé and displays an ease with social interactions that Maddy once idolized. She cares deeply for Maddy but struggles to bridge the growing gap between their different realities.

Dr. Weaver is a psychiatrist who provides Maddy with her official diagnosis of bipolar I disorder. She takes a clinical but compassionate approach to treatment, working to find the right balance of medications. She offers practical advice and represents a reliable medical authority who actually listens to her patient.

Simone is a supportive coworker at Starbucks who harbors her own ambitions, regularly attending acting auditions. She carries a distinct "WORTHY" tattoo that inspires those around her. She acts as a positive force, encouraging creative risks and validating the struggle of artistic pursuits.

Max is an established local comedian who enjoys a comfortable lifestyle, seemingly funded by his parents. He possesses undeniable stage presence that immediately captivates Maddy. He offers advice on comedy but often displays manipulative and dismissive behavior, particularly regarding female performers.

Adam is a boy from Maddy's high school whom she has dated on and off since the ninth grade. He serves as the center of Maddy's world during her freshman year, causing her to neglect other friendships and her academic responsibilities. Their dynamic is volatile and emotionally taxing.

Sofia is Maddy's former best friend from high school. Maddy previously abandoned their friendship to spend all her time with Adam. They reconnect at their summer job, and Sofia extends an olive branch by inviting Maddy to a local comedy club, showing genuine care despite past hurts.

Jack is Maddy's older brother. He is a star athlete who easily fits into their mother's vision of a successful, untroubled life. Maddy views him as arrogant and distant, further highlighting her own feelings of inadequacy within the family unit.

Maddy's grandmother is a warm, active woman who shares fond memories with Maddy of cooking and gardening. She views Maddy with pure affection and holds her in high regard. She carries her own history of personal struggles, hidden behind a loving exterior.

Phil is Maddy's mother's second husband, an older man whom Maddy considers incredibly dull. He represents the safe, conventional life her mother sought after her first marriage failed. He is generally passive but will step in to protect his wife during family conflicts.

Manoush is Maddy's roommate during her freshman year at NYU. She is a dedicated science student who maintains a strict schedule of studying and early mornings. Her disciplined habits sharply contrast with Maddy's lack of direction and inability to attend classes.

Leo is a festival producer who scouts talent at local comedy clubs. He recognizes Maddy's raw ability on stage and offers her a professional opportunity. His invitation provides Maddy with an alternative path when she faces professional rejection.