Character Relationship Map: Matilda

Characters

• Bernie Bonnelli (played by Elliott Gould) — protagonist

  A key associate whose wits, combined with Billy's wisdom and Matilda's skills, are essential for navigating the threats from a mob boss and an animal activist.

• Billy Baker (played by Clive Revill) — protagonist

  A former English boxing champion who moves to America with a boxing kangaroo. He works as a talent agent and promoter, relying on his wisdom to manage Matilda's rapid rise to fame.

• Uncle Nono (played by Harry Guardino) — supporting
• Wild Bill Wildman (played by Roy Clark) — supporting
• Kathleen Smith (played by Karen Carlson) — supporting
• Gordon Baum (played by Art Metrano) — supporting
• Pinky Schwab (played by Lionel Stander) — supporting
• Tanya Six (played by Roberta Collins) — supporting
• Lee Dockerty (played by Larry Pennell) — supporting

  The reigning world heavyweight boxing champion who initially challenges Matilda at a carnival. After being knocked out by the kangaroo, he prepares to defend his title in a highly anticipated rematch.

• Matilda (played by Gary Morgan) — supporting

  A male kangaroo with exceptional boxing talent. After knocking out world champion Lee Dockerty in a carnival match, Matilda becomes a headlining fight attraction and prepares to challenge for the heav...

Canonical Relationships

Family, romantic, and professional connections based on plot evidence.

• Bernie Bonnelli → Pinky Schwab (Professional Colleague)
• Bernie Bonnelli → Gordon Baum (Professional Business Associate)
• Bernie Bonnelli → Billy Baker (Professional Colleague)
• Bernie Bonnelli → Kathleen Smith (Romantic Love Interest)
• Bernie Bonnelli → Uncle Nono (Family Nephew)
• Bernie Bonnelli → Matilda (Professional Agent)

Story Dynamics

Alliances, conflicts, and narrative interactions that evolve throughout the story.

• Billy Baker → Wild Bill Wildman (Alliance Partner)
• Bernie Bonnelli → Lee Dockerty (Conflict Rival)
• Bernie Bonnelli → Tanya Six (Conflict Competitor)
• Bernie Bonnelli → Wild Bill Wildman (Conflict Rival)

Story Analysis

A former champion turns an unusual boxing talent into a famous act while confronting escalating professional, criminal, and ethical pressures.

Plot Progression

1. A Champion in Need
2. The Astonishing Knockout
3. Fame and Ambition
4. Threats Around the Ring
5. The Championship Test