Character Relationship Map: Sleeping with the Devil

Characters

• Dick Strang (played by Tim Matheson) — protagonist

  Antagonist and wealthy fitness chain owner. Manipulates Rebecca into leaving med school and moving to Houston. Exhibits controlling and sadistic behavior, lies about his marriage, pressures Rebecca in...

• Rebecca Dubrovich (played by Shannen Doherty) — protagonist

  Protagonist and nurse. Survives past trauma to focus on her career and triathlon training. Enters a relationship with Dick, endures severe emotional and physical abuse, faces false lawsuits, and is le...

• Dr. Jerrold Petrofsky (played by David Bowe) — supporting

  Surgeon specializing in paralysis recovery. Hires Rebecca as a nurse and collaborates with her on innovative rehabilitation methods. Develops a romantic relationship with her during their work togethe...

• Liz (played by Kate McNeil) — supporting

  Dick’s sister. Warns Rebecca that Dick is a liar and sadist, advising her to leave him. After Dick abuses Rebecca and sues her, Liz provides her with a new house and furniture. She serves as a protect...

• Tom (played by Michael Bryan French) — supporting

Key Relationships

• Dick Strang → Dr. Jerrold Petrofsky (Conflict Rival)
• Tom → Rebecca Dubrovich (Conflict Assassin's Handler)
• Dick Strang → Tom (Professional Employer)
• Rebecca Dubrovich → Dr. Jerrold Petrofsky (Professional Colleague)
• Liz → Rebecca Dubrovich (Alliance Protector)
• Dick Strang → Liz (Family Siblings)
• Rebecca Dubrovich → Dick Strang (Romantic Former Lovers)

Story Analysis

A nurse overcomes abuse and paralysis to reclaim her life and find true love.

Plot Progression

1. The Toxic Romance
2. Escalating Abuse
3. The Hit and Recovery
4. Justice and Renewal