Sadie Thompson

A smoking, drinking, jazz-listening young prostitute who arrives in Pago Pago. She embodies free-spirited vitality and resilience, navigating love with O'Hara while being pulled between her past and a possible future. Her arc centers on a conversion and a struggle between independence and societal judgment.

A stern, pious moralist who tries to deport Sadie and redeem her ‘for her soul’. His authority masks inner contradictions and a growing attraction to Sadie. He wields social power to control others and enforce propriety.

Davidson's wife, aligned with the couple's mission to reform Sadie and uphold social propriety. She contributes to the moral atmosphere of the hotel and the island community. Her presence reinforces the domestic voice in the morality play.

A Marine who sees past Sadie's past and offers support and love. He opposes the punitive approach and envisions a future where Sadie can be with him in Australia. His generosity contrasts with the moralistic forces around him.

The island doctor who embodies authority and medical judgment. He partakes in the moral discourse and helps shape the decisions about Sadie's fate. He interplays with Davidson's crusade and the local cast.

A local character who represents island life and cultural context surrounding Sadie's story. Her presence helps ground the plot in the Pago Pago community. She observes the events from a different cultural vantage point.