Claire is a 63-year-old billionaire who returns to her hometown of Guellen after an absence of 45 years. She possesses immense wealth and travels with a strange entourage. Her baggage notably includes an elaborate black coffin. After surviving severe accidents, she relies on prosthetics for several limbs. She returns with an ambiguous agenda, displaying an unsettling blend of charm and controlling behavior.

Alfred runs a general store in the impoverished town of Guellen. He is the most popular citizen in town and is slated to succeed the current mayor. In his youth, he had a passionate romance with Claire Zachanassian, Née Wascher. The town leaders depend on him to charm his former partner into providing financial aid. He views their past fondly and believes he can secure her help.

The current political leader of Guellen. He orchestrates an underfunded welcome for Claire Zachanassian, Née Wascher. He relies on municipal pride and the appearance of Humanist traditions to govern the desperate town. He attempts to leverage Alfred Ill's past romance to secure an endowment.

Guellen's primary educator. He values history and philosophy. While he understands the town's Humanist principles, he quickly recognizes the intimidating authority that Claire projects upon her arrival. He serves as the intellectual conscience of the impoverished community.

The local law enforcement officer in Guellen. He complains about the difficulties of policing a destitute town. He openly admits that he occasionally ignores minor infractions. He shares the same financial struggles as the rest of the citizens.

The spiritual leader in Guellen. He serves a community struggling with severe poverty and a looming moral test. He relies on the town's only remaining bell, the fire bell, to call people to service.

Alfred Ill's wife. Her family originally owned the general store that Alfred now operates. She assists in running the shop and supports her family. She presents a thin and pale appearance after years of hardship.

Alfred Ill and Matilda Blumhard's son. He seeks employment at the local railway yard to help support his impoverished family. He represents the younger generation stuck in the failing town.

Claire's 80-year-old butler. He travels with her entourage and manages her immediate affairs. He obeys her every command with strict professionalism and formality.

Claire's seventh husband, whose real name is Pedro. She renamed him Moby so his name would rhyme with her butler's name. She dresses him in fishing gear and treats him as a display item rather than an equal partner.

A blind, older man in Claire's entourage. He arrives in Guellen holding hands with Loby. He appears cheerful but unsettling, functioning as a peculiar living piece of Claire's retinue.

A blind, older man who accompanies Koby in Claire's retinue. He relies entirely on Claire's protection and funding while participating in her return to Guellen.

A gangster whom Claire saved from the death penalty at Sing-Sing prison. He now works as a servant and carries her sedan-chair. He serves as muscle for her entourage.

Another former convict rescued from death row by Claire. He is employed alongside Roby to carry her around the town. He functions as an intimidating physical presence.

The local physician in Guellen. He attends civic gatherings and joins the other town leaders in hoping for a financial rescue. He holds a respected position in the failing community.

A government official tasked with seizing assets from Guellen to settle the town's financial obligations. He finds the Town Hall completely barren, reflecting the extreme poverty of the area. He remains focused on his duties despite the bleak environment.