Saoirse is an introspective, observant young woman growing up in rural Ireland in a household comprised entirely of women. Marked early by the sudden death of her father and her mother's outcast status, she experiences the difficulties of adolescence within a restrictive community. She exhibits a profound curiosity about the adult world and a deep empathy that shapes her interactions with those around her.

Eileen is Saoirse’s headstrong, independent mother. Widowed shortly after her daughter's birth, she works as a bookmaker to provide for her family while facing judgment from her community and relatives over her teenage pregnancy. She balances domestic responsibilities with an enduring stubbornness, refusing to apologize for her existence.

Nana is Saoirse’s grandmother and the aging matriarch of the Aylward family. Having endured significant tragedy, including the loss of her son, she moves in with Eileen to help raise Saoirse. She is an old-fashioned, opinionated woman who freely shares gossip and stories, offering unconditional love alongside traditional views that spark household debates.

Richard is Eileen's estranged brother and Saoirse's uncle. He carries deep resentment toward Eileen for her teenage pregnancy, which he claims broke their parents' hearts. He prioritizes social reputation and financial gain over family loyalty, utilizing intimidation to exert control over his sister.

Josh is a local young man who returns to Ireland with his sophisticated girlfriend, Honey. He harbors ambitions of becoming a novelist but struggles with feelings of inadequacy. He integrates himself into the Aylward family's life, helping care for Nana and forming a complex connection with Saoirse that blends artistic collaboration with emotional turbulence.

Pearl is Saoirse’s daughter, born when Saoirse is a teenager. Surrounded by the fiercely protective women of the Aylward household, Pearl grows up in an environment shaped by deep familial bonds. She is a compassionate child who brings a new sense of purpose and focus to her mother's life.

Paudie is one of Nana's sons and Saoirse's uncle. He becomes involved in political conflicts, leading to legal troubles and police scrutiny that bring anxiety to the Aylward household. Despite his dangerous affiliations with paramilitary organizations, he remains a supportive figure to his family.

Chris is Nana's son and Saoirse's uncle. He struggles to find his footing after the death of his brother and seeks companionship, eventually marrying a local woman named Doreen. He relies heavily on the Aylward women for emotional grounding but often finds himself caught between his new marriage and his birth family.

Honey is Josh's vibrant, educated girlfriend from London. As a Black woman in a rural Irish town, she faces ignorance but maintains a cheerful, expansive demeanor. She serves as a role model for Saoirse, embodying the cosmopolitan independence and artistic freedom that Saoirse yearns for.

Doreen is Chris's wife, a local woman who struggles to find acceptance within the tight-knit Aylward family. She feels acutely lonely and neglected by her husband, harboring deep insecurities that sometimes manifest as jealousy toward Saoirse. Despite her erratic behavior, she genuinely desires connection.

Breedie is a schoolmate of Saoirse who reaches out for friendship amidst her own social struggles. Alienated by her former friends and battling depression, she seeks an escape through local nightlife and rebellion. Her desire for connection masks a profound vulnerability.

Oisín is a local boy with an explosive temper who becomes an early romantic interest for Saoirse. After facing disciplinary action at school, he shares brief, tentative moments of connection with Saoirse, though his inability to handle emotional vulnerability prevents lasting closeness.

Oonagh is Oisín's new girlfriend. Protective of her relationship and heavily influenced by local gossip, she attempts to intimidate Saoirse but quickly learns the strength of the Aylward women's defensive instincts.

Kit is Nana's old friend who frequently visits the Aylward household. She provides a connection to the broader community's gossip and serves as a supportive peer for Nana during times of family transition.