Margo Channing
Margo Channing, played by Bette Davis, is a legendary stage actress and the complicated protagonist of the story. Margo is an established and renowned leading lady, but she is terrified of aging and losing her status as an ingenue. This insecurity is aggravated by the presence of Eve and the threat she poses on Margo's career and love life.
Eve Harrington
Eve Harrington is introduced as a sincere, devoted fan of Margo Channing and her work. She has seen every one of Margo's performances and soon becomes Margo's hyper-attentive assistant. Eve's attentiveness soon unfolds to show her true ambitious goal. Eve wants to replace Margo, on stage and in her social circle. Eve manipulates her way into an ingenue role, critical acclaim, and a best actress award, but her web of lies inevitably catches up to her and there is always a younger actress looking for someone to replace.
Bill Sampson
Bill Sampson is a good-hearted and talented director as well as Margo Channing's younger love interest. Bill directs plays starring both Margo and later, to his chagrin, Eve. Bill, like his friends, falls under the charming spell of Eve and believes her false good intentions. After becoming Margo's understudy, Eve attempts to seduce Bill. Bill rejects Eve's advances and is disillusioned by her act. He now understands why Margo fears and dislikes Eve, and he proposes to Margo the next day.
Karen Richards
Karen is married to play-wright Lloyd Richards and is close friends with Margo. Karen is captivated by Eve and helps her throughout the movie. Karen grows frustrated with Margo's harsh and aggressive attitude so she helps Eve become Margo's understudy. Karen concocts a plan ensure Margo would miss her evening show so Eve would have to go on stage that night in the lead role. Karen eventually sees through Eve's act when Eve tries to blackmail her to make sure she's the lead in her husband Lloyd's next show.
