The Hand That Rocks the Cradle

A pregnant attorney who balances career and motherhood while contending with a volatile babysitter. She navigates paranoia and trust as Polly's influence over her family grows, ultimately confronting a past that blurs lines between victim and aggressor.

A charming, calculating nanny who uses warmth and attentiveness to dismantle the family's defenses. Beneath the surface lies a history of abuse and manipulation, fueling a ruthless bid to replace the mother and claim the children.

Claire's husband, initially supportive but increasingly pulled into Polly's orbit. His affections and loyalties are tested as the nanny's influence grows, exposing cracks in the family's unity.

Claire and Miguel's older daughter, curious and impressionable. Polly targets Emma, weaving a web of influence that unsettles the family and intensifies Caitlyn's struggle to protect her children.

The youngest daughter, a symbol of vulnerability and love within the household. Polly’s presence threatens Josie's safety as the conflict escalates toward a deadly climax.

A perceptive neighbor who digs into Polly's past, uncovering a web of deceit. Stewart's investigation helps Caitlyn connect the dots between Polly's stories and the truth.

A supposed former employer and reference Polly exploits to bolster her disguise. Her discovery triggers a chain of revelations about Polly's fabricated history.

A secondary character who interacts with the household, contributing to the domestic weave of the plot.

A medical professional involved in the household's care, whose interactions with the family illuminate the vulnerability and fragile mental health tensions present in the story.