The Mighty McGurk

Former heavyweight champion turned saloon bouncer, rough around the edges but capable of loyalty. His arc swings between self-interest and protective action as he defies Mike's schemes to safeguard the Salvation Army and Nipper.

Saloon owner pressuring to expand his empire; uses blackmail and manipulation to push Slag and to drive out the Salvation Army. He represents the corrosive lure of money and power in the Bowery.

Salvation Army officer who guides Slag toward reform and leads the mission to protect vulnerable youths like Nipper. He stands as a moral counterweight to Mike's schemes.

Mike's daughter who becomes entangled in the family drama and Slag's decisions; she learns of her father's deceit and ultimately prepares to leave with her belongings.

An orphan English boy brought to America to live with his uncle Milbane. He forms a bond with Slag and seeks belonging, eventually finding safety with the Salvation Army.

Pawnshop owner who lends money to Slag and becomes entangled in the fallout of his entanglements with Mike; her friendship with Slag is strained but pivotal.

Nipper's supposed relative who is revealed to be a crook; he manipulates the boy for money and exposes the darker side of the immigrant story.

One of the two brewers Mike trades with, a part of the scheme to control the Bowery's business and force out the Salvation Army.

The other brewer who completes the deal alongside the first, contributing to the pressure on the Salvation Army and the community.