The author's mother, a former beauty pageant queen, and a successful career woman whose relationship with Perry is complicated by feelings of abandonment and the pressure he feels to make her proud.

Matthew Perry's father, a singer turned actor, who is portrayed as a remote figure in the author's early life but later becomes a supportive presence during his son's battles with addiction.

A friend and fellow actor to Matthew Perry, initially more successful, but whose decision not to take the role of Chandler Bing on Friends influences both their careers and tests their friendship.

Perry's co-stars on the sitcom Friends, who share a close, supportive bond both on and off set, playing a significant role in Perry's life and career, especially during his struggles with addiction.

A renowned actress with whom Matthew Perry shares a brief romantic relationship marked by his fear of inadequacy and abandonment, ultimately ending abruptly and regretfully.

A notable television executive and one-time romantic partner of Perry, known for both her professional achievements and her extensive personal support of him during difficult times.

Perry's assistant and best friend, formerly employed at a rehabilitation center, who provides companionship and support crucial to his sobriety, with their friendship devoid of romantic tension due to her identity as a lesbian.