Five Star Final

An ambitious, unscrupulous Gazette reporter who chases a sensational angle to revive sales. He prioritizes a big splash over careful verification, driving the plot toward tragedy through relentless pursuit of a headline.

A disguised, unscrupulous reporter who pretends to be a minister to gain access to the Townsends and their confidences. He manipulates the family and feeds information to the press, highlighting the predatory nature of sensationalism.

The managing editor who pushes the retropective murder angle to boost circulation while trying to maintain a veneer of respectability. He grapples with guilt as the personal cost of the story becomes evident.

An upstanding member of a respectable family who is blindsided by the revival of his wife Nancy’s past. He seeks to protect his loved ones and uphold appearances, but the public scrutiny tests his integrity.

The pregnant stenographer whose past becomes fuel for the newspaper’s revival. Her fear of exposure and the social stigma attached to her history lead to a desperate, tragic act.

The Townsends’ daughter who believes Michael is her father. Her forthcoming marriage to Phillip Weeks heightens the stakes of the scandal and foregrounds the human cost of public scrutiny.

A socially prominent fiancé whose wedding would cement the Townsends’ status. He challenges the press’s intrusion and represents the pressure to preserve appearances in high society.

Randall’s secretary who becomes disillusioned with the paper’s methods. Her intoxicated outburst at a speakeasy reveals the moral weight behind the newsroom’s actions.

The ruthless owner/publisher who aims to ride a sensational series for higher sales. He embodies the profit-driven mindset of the era’s tabloids and cares little for the human cost.

A fellow reporter who covers the Townsend apartment and contributes to the live feed of the scandal. She represents the newsroom’s collective push for a major story.