John Harper — The Night of the Hunter Character Profile

About John Harper

The cautious young son of Ben Harper who instinctively distrusts Harry Powell. After accidentally revealing the money's location, he flees with his sister to find refuge. He experiences intense trauma during the killer's arrest and ultimately finds peace and safety living with Rachel Cooper and the other stray children.

Character Facts

Played by

Billy Chapin

Appears in

The Night of the Hunter (1955)

Role

Supporting

Relationships (3)

• John Harper — Family Siblings — Pearl Harper (Sally Jane Bruce)
• John Harper — Conflict Threatener — Preacher Harry Powell (Robert Mitchum)
• John Harper — Alliance Refuge Provider — Uncle Birdie Steptoe (James Gleason)

Explore the full interactive character relationship map of The Night of the Hunter

More characters from The Night of the Hunter

• Preacher Harry Powell (Robert Mitchum)
• Willa Harper (Shelley Winters)
• Rachel Cooper (Lillian Gish)
• Ruby (Gloria Castillo)
• Pearl Harper (Sally Jane Bruce)
• Uncle Birdie Steptoe (James Gleason)
• Bart (Paul Bryar)
• Mary (Cheryl Callaway)
• Sheriff (Roy Engel)
• Bart's Wife (Frances Morris)
• Ruby's Boyfriend (Michael Chapin)
• Miz Cunningham (Kay Lavelle)