Mildred Pierce

Mildred is a resourceful, determined housewife who pivots from homemaker to businesswoman under pressure from the Great Depression. She takes a waitress job, discovers her talent for running a kitchen, and builds a restaurant franchise to secure her daughters' future. Her drive mixes resilience with moral ambiguity as she navigates love, money, and social judgment.

Veda is precociously ambitious, brittlely self-assured, and determined to maintain a glamorous life. She resents her mother's 'pie wagons' and uses her status and connections to pursue opera stardom, manipulating those around her. Her relationship with Mildred is volatile, alternating moments of closeness and cruel entitlement.

Monte Beragon is a charismatic, wealthy polo player who courts Mildred with charm and material promises. His confidence fades as his own ventures fail and he leans on Mildred's wealth, culminating in betrayal. His presence highlights entitlement and transactional affection.

Bert is Mildred's husband and the children's father; once a home builder, his joblessness and infidelity strain the family. He drifts in and out of their lives, offering limited stability while his own flaws push Mildred toward independence. His shortcomings underscore the era's economic and moral pressures.

Letty is the housemaid who becomes a trusted confidant for Mildred during the restaurant years. She assists with daily life, stands by Mildred through the chaos, and helps maintain the household's rhythm. Her quiet loyalty provides a steadying counterpoint to the family drama.

Ida is Mildred's loyal friend who shares recipes and supports her venture; she steps into the kitchen to help on opening night and remains a backbone of the operation. She brings practical know-how and steadfast friendship during turbulent times.

Lucy is Mildred's neighbor and friend who praises her culinary talents and offers encouragement. Her support helps Mildred navigate social judgment and economic risks, reinforcing the importance of community.

Wally is Bert's friend and associate who introduces Mildred to the idea of a restaurant and becomes part of her early romance and business network. He supports her ambitions while complicating her personal life.

Mr. Pierce acts as the paternal figure in the Pierce family, representing traditional expectations that Mildred tries to transcend. His presence emphasizes the economic and moral pressures shaping the family’s decisions.