The matriarch of the Sorenson family. Marilyn drops out of college to raise her children and eventually opens a hardware store. She shares an unusually close bond with her husband, which serves as an impossible standard for her daughters. She frequently feels overwhelmed by the demands of her chaotic family but remains fiercely devoted to them.

The patriarch of the Sorenson family and a retired physician. He falls in love with Marilyn while in medical school and spends much of his early career building his medical practice. In his retirement, he finds himself somewhat adrift and channels his energy into caring for the family's property, particularly a beloved gingko tree.

The eldest Sorenson daughter, known for her fiery temper and rebellious nature. Despite her reputation as the family wild card who struggles with substance use, she acts as a hidden caregiver to those she loves. Her financial resources and sharp tongue often mask her deep-seated vulnerabilities.

The second Sorenson daughter, often viewed by the family as the most stable and responsible. A former lawyer who becomes a stay-at-home mother, she strives to project an image of normalcy and control. Beneath her composed exterior, she guards secrets from her past that threaten her carefully constructed life.

The mild and unassuming third Sorenson daughter, who often feels lost in the shuffle of her large family. She is a driven academic who achieves early tenure as a psychology professor. She struggles to balance her professional success with her troubled personal life, constantly comparing her relationship to her parents' seemingly perfect marriage.

The youngest Sorenson daughter, born several years after her sisters and affectionately known as the family's epilogue. She lives across the country in Oregon. She leads her family to believe she is successfully attending law school while secretly hiding her rejections. Accustomed to being shielded and doted on, she deals with low self-esteem and a profound lack of direction.

A teenage boy who spends much of his life in foster care and group homes after his adoptive parents die in a car accident. He is suddenly brought into the Sorenson family orbit, disrupting their established dynamics. Independent and resourceful, he struggles to adjust to the overwhelming affection and wealth of his new biological relatives.

Wendy's wealthy husband, whom she initially meets when he teaches a continuing education class. A kind and supportive man, he provides Wendy with unconditional love and acts as a stabilizing force in her turbulent life.

Liza's long-term partner who struggles with deep depression and professional stagnation. He spends much of his time sleeping or playing video games, creating friction in his relationship with the highly ambitious Liza.

Violet's husband and the father of their two young sons. He is a busy professional who values the stability of his family unit and becomes frustrated when sudden family dramas disrupt their carefully managed household.

Jonah's foster caregiver who genuinely loves him. She prepares to leave the country to care for her own family but advocates for Jonah to find a stable home before she departs.

Violet and Matt's young son. Innocent and eager for connection, he quickly forms an attachment to Jonah, unaware of the complex family history surrounding the teenager.

A medical professional and former colleague of David Sorenson. Her close historical friendship with David becomes a source of curiosity and anxiety for the Sorenson women, who question the boundaries of their relationship.

A young man who spends time with Grace in Oregon. He sees past her insecurities and self-deprecation, genuinely liking her despite her inability to recognize her own worth.

Wendy's former high school boyfriend. His past entanglement with the Sorenson sisters casts a long shadow over their adult lives.