If Ever I See You Again

A successful, moneyed composer of TV jingles who is frustrated by executives' meddling. He longs for artistic integrity, envy-friendly of his pianist friend David, and he falls in love with Jennifer again. His choices are driven by work, family, and a desire to find a life where he can live in New York while pursuing music on his own terms.

A former college flame who has become a Malibu painter. She is beautiful, independent, and not a 'forever person' at heart, yet she reconnects with Bob and is torn between love and a need for personal space. Her decisions reveal a wary optimism about romance and a desire to live authentically.

Bob's old friend, now a married classical pianist on the cusp of a Carnegie Hall breakthrough. He embodies quiet dedication and personal fulfillment through artistry, contrasting with Bob's commercial pressures. His success proves the payoff of persistence and authentic pursuit of one's craft.

Bob's loyal assistant who openly thanks Bob for his guidance, highlighting the impact of mentorship and the emotional cost of career decisions. His gratitude and goodwill contrast with Bob's guilt when contemplating layoffs.

Bob's business partner in the jingle venture, who shares in the company's highs and impending upheaval. He represents the practical side of entrepreneurship and the personal bonds that tie colleagues together.

The eccentric and sometimes rude executive who pushes Bob toward corporate conformity. He embodies the friction between artistic impulse and commercial demand, serving as a foil to Bob's creative aspirations.

The younger Bob, glimpsed in flashbacks, illustrating the roots of his ambition and the early choices that shaped his current life. These moments highlight a trajectory from promising student to commercially successful composer.

Jennifer's younger self, shown in memory as the romantic history that informs her current reticence about commitment and the complexity of returning to past loves. Her character underscores the theme of reconciling history with present desires.

One of Bob's two children who anchors his personal life and holiday celebrations. Their presence underscores Bob's motivation to balance business with family and a hopeful future.