The Five Heartbeats

The Heartbeats' lead singer whose struggle with alcohol and cocaine destabilizes performances and relationships. He eventually becomes sober after forming a Christian faith influence, marries Baby Doll, and later supports his own group while reconnecting with his former bandmates.

The Heartbeats' manager, whose push for control and shady deals benefits himself and his wife Eleanor. He negotiates with labels and threatens to expose illegal payola and bootlegging schemes, only to be killed by Big Red, a turning point that alters the group's career trajectory.

Owner of Big Red Records, a ruthless figure who pursues profit at the expense of the artists. He orchestrates deals to consolidate power, ultimately ordering Jimmy Potter's murder when threatened with exposure of corrupt practices, and faces conviction that reshapes the Heartbeats' future.

A member of The Heartbeats who remains connected to church roots. In the early 1990s, he returns to singing in his father’s church, illustrating a steadfast belief and spiritual dimension within the group’s legacy.

One of The Heartbeats who grows suspicious of Tanya Sawyer's affair with J.T. His discovery leads to personal turmoil, and he eventually leaves the group as internal tensions surge amid the band's evolving dynamics.

A Heartbeats member who marries and has children, including a son named Duck. He engages in a complex relationship with Tanya, and later reconciles with his brother as part of the group’s evolving family dynamics.

Duck's fiancée who has an affair with J.T. Her relationship pre-dates Duck’s, and she navigates love, loyalty, and choices that impact the band's harmony during a turbulent period.

Eddie's girlfriend who becomes his wife; she stands by him through his addiction and eventual sobriety, reinforcing themes of support and resilience within personal relationships.

The Heartbeats' lead singer after Eddie, who later goes solo and becomes part of Flash and The Five Horsemen, marking a new chapter in the group’s lineage.

Jimmy Potter’s wife who is aware of the corruption surrounding Big Red’s industry dealings. She supports her husband and, at a turning point, faces the consequences of their choices while offering forgiveness in the end.

Leader of The Midnight Falcons and a rival force in the music scene. His actions heighten tension as he and his circle attempt to derail The Heartbeats during the competition, illustrating the cutthroat nature of show business.

A Heartbeats member who witnesses personal strain, including his girlfriend's pregnancy. His experiences reflect the personal costs of fame and the responsibilities that come with a growing family.

A rival musical act who emerge as a contemporary force in the industry and influence the Heartbeats’ career trajectory through competing offers and market pressure.

A supporting figure in the band’s broader world, adding a maternal or managerial presence to the group’s extended circle. Her presence underscores the family-like ties that bind the Heartbeats’ community.