The central protagonist, a Depression-era farm girl who endures abuse, poverty, and exploitation. She navigates life as a sweatshop worker, taxi dancer, prisoner, and brothel prostitute. After falling in love with gangster John Dillinger, she survives his death and orchestrates a revenge bank robbery, ultimately escaping to California.
A violent mobster who threatens Polly and her associates, ultimately killed by Pinetop.
A skilled pianist turned accomplice who fights alongside Polly and falls in battle.
A loyal friend and accomplice who joins Polly's revenge mission and dies protecting her.
A romantic partner who provides Polly with emotional acceptance and love.
The brothel madam who manages Polly's career and later betrays her to the FBI.
A close friend and roommate who shares Polly's struggles and ultimately dies tragically.
A cruel factory owner who exploits workers and fathers a child through coercion.
A predatory journalist who exploits Polly sexually and later destroys her reputation through false journalism.
Explore the full interactive character relationship map of The Lady in Red