A 28-year-old British poet and expatriate living in Los Angeles. Originally brought to Hollywood to write a script about Percy Bysshe Shelley, Dennis finds himself working at the Happier Hunting Ground pet mortuary after his studio contract is canceled. He possesses a stoic and pragmatic demeanor, partially resulting from his service in World War II, which shields him from the absurdities of his environment.

The chief embalmer at the prestigious Whispering Glades funeral home. He is deeply respected in the mortuary business for his skill in preparing the deceased, and he takes immense pride in his craft. Outside of his highly regarded professional life, he lives in a declining neighborhood with his demanding mother and her pet parrot.

A young American cosmetician working at the Whispering Glades mortuary. Finding solace in the quiet environment of the funeral home after a difficult upbringing, she views her cosmetic work on the deceased as a sacred form of art. She is earnest and spiritually inclined, often seeking meaning in her unusual profession while considering the romantic attentions of the men in her life.

A veteran British expatriate and former chief scriptwriter at Megalopolitan Pictures. Once a prominent figure in the Hollywood film community, he has recently been demoted to the publicity department, a shift reflected in his decaying estate and empty swimming pool. He fiercely values his reputation and adheres to strict notions of English superiority in America.

A pretentious British actor working in the Los Angeles film industry. He views himself as a guardian of British dignity in America and firmly believes that expatriates must only accept leading roles in society. He is highly concerned with public image and the collective reputation of the English community in Hollywood.

The pragmatic owner and operator of the Happier Hunting Ground, a pet mortuary in Los Angeles. He runs his business with a strict eye on the bottom line, prioritizing cheap fuel, low wages, and hard work over sentimental extravagance.

A spiritual advice columnist for a local newspaper. He serves as a distant confidant for individuals seeking help with personal and romantic dilemmas, dispensing published wisdom to his readers.

A new employee at Megalopolitan Pictures. He is assigned to take over Sir Francis Hinsley's office, executing the transition with a casual disregard for the previous occupant's legacy.

A higher-up executive at Megalopolitan Pictures. He handles studio personnel changes with cold, bureaucratic efficiency, showing little sympathy for long-term employees who are let go.

A wealthy pet owner in Los Angeles who utilizes the Happier Hunting Ground mortuary. She opts for the lavish Grade A service to honor the memory of her late terrier.

A Los Angeles resident whose household requires the services of the Happier Hunting Ground following the loss of a pet. He interacts directly with the mortuary staff regarding the logistics.