This Is (Not) Your Ocean

A boutique owner and devoted wife who tries to salvage her fractured family. She navigates financial strain, an unexpected pregnancy, and the gossip and suspicion that swirl around her, acting as the emotional anchor of the story. Debbie organizes conversations with family members and seeks practical steps—like strengthening bonds through everyday actions—to heal the rifts.

Owner of a struggling record label who believes in a comeback but is overwhelmed by debt and familial pressure. He loves Debbie and wants to protect his family, yet his decisions are often influenced by financial stress and fear of failure. Pete’s journey centers on honor in the face of chaos and learning to listen and adapt.

Debbie and Pete’s 13-year-old daughter, caught between adolescence and adult scrutiny. Her online confrontation with a friend's family triggers real-world tensions and tests her parents’ ability to guide and discipline. Sadie’s anger and longing for connection push the family toward clearer boundaries and communication.

The eight-year-old daughter who adds a softer, observational layer to the family drama. She witnesses the adults’ conflicts and provides a counterpoint to the high-stakes adult decisions with her own innocent perspective. Charlotte’s presence reminds the family of love’s simplicity and the impact of parental attention.

An attractive coworker who Debbie suspects of theft, later revealed to be an escort. Desi embodies a life of glamorous appearances tied to secrets and reveals a sharp, maneuvering side when confronted. Her presence complicates Debbie’s trust and the dynamics of the boutique’s finances.

Debbie’s employee who steals money to buy Oxycontin, leading to her firing and a spotlight on addiction and desperation. Jodi’s actions catalyze the financial tension and moral decisions the family must confront. Her choice illustrates how personal struggles can ripple outward and threaten livelihoods.

Joseph’s mother who becomes entangled in a heated exchange with Debbie and the principal. She uses blunt language and a provocative stance, challenging the adults’ authority and amplifying the conflict surrounding the daughters. Catherine represents external forces that push families to confront their public personas and private faults.

Pete’s father, who often appears as a source of financial strain due to lending money. He is caring but complicates the couple’s finances and adds to the family’s emotional load. Larry’s presence tests boundaries around loyalty, support, and the consequences of parental decisions.

Debbie’s father, who reveals that his life isn’t perfect and who emphasizes his long-standing care and love for Debbie. Oliver acts as a mirror for Debbie’s own struggles and as a source of guidance that helps shape her determination to fight for her family.