Emma is a sharp, fiercely individualistic, and politically outspoken graduate with a first-class degree in English and History. Idealistic and hesitant about the realities of adulthood, she harbors dreams of changing the world through art but struggles to find fulfilling work in London. She initially takes jobs in a theater cooperative and a Tex-Mex restaurant, feeling adrift but maintaining a close, complex friendship with Dexter.

Dexter is a wealthy, confident, and handsome young man who seeks fame, travel, and a glamorous lifestyle post-graduation. Unsure of his exact career path initially, he eventually finds success in the television industry. He enjoys a lavish lifestyle filled with parties and casual encounters, often using these distractions to mask a deeper sense of aimlessness and vulnerability.

Ian is an aspiring stand-up comedian who works alongside Emma at a Tex-Mex restaurant to make ends meet. He is emotionally chaotic, slightly messy, and characterized by a corny sense of humor. He harbors a deep crush on Emma and views Dexter with animosity, feeling inadequate compared to Dexter's wealth and charm.

Sylvie is an elegant, classically beautiful woman from an affluent and demanding family in Sussex. Characterized by her moderation, she refrains from excessive drinking and partying, standing in direct opposition to Dexter's usual lifestyle and Emma's bohemian habits. She values success and stability, though she is not highly demonstrative with physical affection.

Alison is Dexter's mother. She is observant and caring, though frequently disappointed by her son's lack of ambition and superficial choices. As her health begins to decline, she urges Dexter to find true purpose and engage in something meaningful rather than relying on his charm.

Callum is an old university friend of Dexter's who eventually opens a successful sandwich chain called Natural Stuff. He provides a steady counterpoint to Dexter's chaotic career trajectory by building a stable business and remaining a pragmatic figure in their social circle.

Tilly is Emma's friend and flatmate from her university days. She is an enthusiastic presence who encourages Emma's social outings and shares in the transitional phase of their early post-graduate lives.

Scott is the manager at the London Tex-Mex restaurant where Emma works. He recognizes Emma's dependability and eventually offers her his managerial position when he decides to leave the restaurant.

Stephanie is a polished and professional friend of Emma's who secures a job in publishing shortly after graduation. She represents the career success that Emma initially envies and strives for as she tries to establish herself in London.

Philip is the headmaster at the school where Emma takes a teaching position. He complicates Emma's professional life by crossing boundaries and initiating a romantic affair with her, creating an uneasy power dynamic.

Aaron is Dexter's talent agent in the media industry. He is tasked with managing Dexter's increasingly difficult public image and must deliver harsh truths about his client's fading popularity and unprofessional reputation.

Suki is Dexter's television co-host and a brief romantic interest. She is embedded in the same fast-paced, image-conscious media world as Dexter, though she maintains a more stable professional footing.

Marsha is a famous editor in the publishing industry. Her meeting with Emma highlights the misunderstandings and difficulties of breaking into the literary world, leading to a moment of deep disappointment for Emma.

Naomi is a woman Dexter casually dates during his early television career. She participates in his fast-paced London lifestyle and is sometimes called upon to support him during his darker, more vulnerable moments.

Tove is a Danish student living in Rome whom Dexter teaches English. She represents his tendency to engage in inappropriate and fleeting romances during his post-graduate travels.

Sue is Emma's mother. She offers a suburban home for Emma to return to when her post-graduate plans stall, maintaining an enthusiastic and supportive presence in her daughter's life.

Marianne is Emma's sister. She has a somewhat hesitant demeanor regarding Emma's choices but remains a constant family tie as Emma grows older.

Jean-Pierre is a man Emma meets and begins dating while living in Belleville, Paris. He represents a new, cultured chapter in Emma's life as she establishes herself as an author abroad.

Maddy is an employee at Dexter's imported food business. Sensible and thoughtful, she provides steady support and companionship in Dexter's professional environment.