Hisham's father, a prominent Libyan dissident who disappears in 1990, whose absence deeply impacts his family and anchors the story's central mystery.

The authoritarian ruler of Libya from 1969 to 2011, whose regime’s repressive tactics form the backdrop against which the Matar family struggles.

Qaddafi's brother-in-law and intelligence chief, implicated in the oppressive actions of the regime, including the infamous Abu Salim prison massacre.

The Western-educated son of Muammar Qaddafi, who initially presents as a reformer but ultimately illustrates the regime’s continuation of oppressive practices.

Jaballa’s youngest brother, who provides crucial eyewitness testimony after surviving years of imprisonment and torture.

Hisham’s mother, who supports her family through exile and maintains the bonds of memory and resilience during years of uncertainty.

Hisham’s cousin, an engineering student who embodies the hopes and sacrifices of the Libyan revolution.