Zookeeper

The head zookeeper at Franklin Park Zoo who cares deeply for the animals and dreams of a stable relationship. He’s kind-hearted, conscientious, and sometimes insecure about who he is beyond his job. Over the story, he learns to stay true to himself rather than changing to please others.

The lion who defies the code of silence and communicates with Griffin, serving as a comic yet insightful foil. His rough exterior hides loyalty and a desire for respect from humans. He pushes Griffin toward personal growth through mischief and honesty.

A wise, traumatized gorilla who challenges Griffin to see the flaws in how humans treat fellow animals. He teaches Griffin empathy and the importance of trust, even after years of mistreatment. He becomes Griffin’s friend and ally as they bond over shared experiences.

The zoo veterinarian who helps rescue Joe during the enclosure incident. She becomes a confidant and later a romantic partner for Griffin, while also challenging his need to change himself for others. She eventually leaves the zoo for Nairobi, choosing her own path.

Griffin’s longtime girlfriend who breaks up with him, citing his career as a zookeeper as the problem. Her relationship with Griffin fuels the initial conflict and his decision to seek a different life, though she does not truly understand his true self.

Griffin’s brother, a car dealer who tries to help Griffin by suggesting he change his life. He acts as a foil to Griffin’s values and provides comic dysfunction caused by the wedding plans and industry contrasts.

Former zookeeper who abused Bernie, triggering the gorilla’s trauma and the zoo’s history of closure. His actions are confronted by Griffin and Bernie in a key moment of accountability.

Dave’s fiancée and Stephanie’s ally; her role underscores the wedding subplot and adds tension to Griffin’s decisions.

Stephanie’s bully-ex-boyfriend who challenges Griffin to prove himself, setting up rivalry and a cycling showdown that Griffin ultimately overcomes.

Joe’s mate, a source of leadership and social structure among the animal cast, who plays a supporting role in the animals’ plan.