I Love You, Daddy

Glen Topher is a successful writer-producer based in New York City. He wields wealth and influence in his professional circle and struggles to balance his ambitions with fatherly responsibility. He grows anxious and controlling when China asserts her independence, especially after Grace enters his life and when a veteran director's proximity to China raises alarms. By Emmy night, Glen's choices come under scrutiny as he reassesses his trust in China and his own priorities.

China Topher is Glen and Aura’s 17-year-old daughter who seeks independence and new social circles. She travels to Paris with Leslie Goodwin and friends, testing her boundaries and her father's protective stance. She asserts agency in her decisions, even when they contradict Glen’s concerns. In the end, she and Glen start reconciling, suggesting a more mature parent–child relationship.

Grace Cullen is an ambitious actress who seeks the lead role Glen is developing and uses charm to influence him. She becomes Glen’s romantic interest, complicating his personal and professional life. Her presence coincides with rumors and moral ambiguities around Leslie Goodwin, and their relationship breaks under the strain of mistrust. The arc reveals how celebrity relationships can blur ethical lines and destabilize families.

Leslie Goodwin is a veteran director whom Glen idolizes and whom China meets during the Paris trip. He invites China on a Paris trip with friends, a move that triggers Glen’s suspicions and confrontations. Media rumors about his past create tension and highlight the susceptibility of younger minds to older industry figures. He ultimately catalyzes Glen's shift in perspective, as China resists inappropriate advances.

Ralph Kinder is Glen’s closest friend who sows rumors about China’s spring break, fueling Glen’s anxiety and distrust. His comments illuminate the gossip-driven nature of the entertainment world and how rumors influence family dynamics.

Aura Topher is Glen’s ex-wife who remains emotionally outspoken and challenges him, accusing him of always giving China whatever she wants and failing to enforce boundaries. Her perspective underscores the ongoing tension between parental freedom and responsibility.

Maggie is Glen’s outspoken ex-girlfriend who pushes back against the idea that Glen can provide everything China wants, acting as a counterpoint to Glen’s parenting style.

Paula is Glen’s production partner who worries about the lack of a script and cast, ultimately trying to keep the project on track while navigating the personal drama surrounding the lead actor.