Olive's young son who accompanies her on the road. After being struck by Kent's car, his injury triggers a custody dispute. He spends time with Kent and Mary, learning new skills, but his troubled past and association with delinquent friends complicate Olive's efforts to prove herself as a stable guardian.
Olive is Bobby's biological mother and primary guardian, driving the narrative through her desperate efforts to keep him.
Earl is Bobby's peer and friend, though his reckless behavior indirectly causes Bobby's arrest.
Kent positions himself as a stable, wealthy alternative father figure for Bobby.
Explore the full interactive character relationship map of Bringing Up Bobby