Wild Guitar

A young singer-songwriter who arrives in Hollywood seeking stardom. He is charismatic and musically gifted, but increasingly wary of McCauley's unscrupulous tactics. His loyalty to his music clashes with the lure of money, driving him to secretly record evidence of exploitation.

An aspiring dancer who helps Bud get a break and becomes his love interest. She embodies optimism and loyalty, yet she is swept up in the rollercoaster of show business. Their relationship anchors the drama as industry pressures mount.

A ruthless talent scout who promises fame while using manipulation and paid promotions to grow his acts. He hides his greed behind charm and control, pressuring Bud to stay in a dishonest arrangement. His willingness to break rules sets up the central conflict.

McCauley's former client who warns Bud that he is being cheated. He is skeptical and world-weary, embodying the cautionary voice of experience in the industry. His confrontation with Bud foreshadows the moral stakes of pursuing success.

McCauley's henchman—physically imposing and loyal to the boss. He pursues Bud and Vickie during the climax, blending menace with a rough-edged, sometimes comical presence. His role underscores the violence lurking behind showbiz deals.

A dancer who uses seduction to distract Bud, representing the temptations and distractions within the industry. She adds a seductive energy to the scenes around McCauley's operation. Her brief alliance with the other characters highlights the risks of quick money.

Owner of Marge's Koffee Kup Cafe and a local touchstone in Bud's world. She embodies the gritty, grounded side of the showbiz ecosystem and provides a frequent gathering point for the characters. Her cafe is the social hub that frames the film's events.

One of the trio who abduct Bud, a comical but threatening presence that pushes the plot forward. His actions show the volatility and danger that surround sudden fame and the people who chase it.

Another member of the kidnapping trio, contributing to the film's chaotic turn and testing Bud's resolve. His role emphasizes the periphery of crime in pursuit of money and attention.

The third member of the kidnapping trio, adding to the film's tension and farcical danger. His presence reinforces the unpredictable, low-level crime that complicates Bud's ascent.