Character Relationship Map: Singles

Characters

• Janet Livermore (played by Bridget Fonda) — protagonist

  Coffee-bar waitress who is infatuated with Cliff Poncier.

• Steve Dunne (played by Campbell Scott) — protagonist

  One half of a couple struggling with relationship commitment and wavering on their future together.

• Linda Powell (played by Kyra Sedgwick) — supporting

  Partner in a rocky relationship, wavering on whether to fully commit to Steve Dunne.

• Cliff Poncier (played by Matt Dillon) — supporting

  Aspiring and somewhat detached musician in the fictional grunge band Citizen Dick, who catches Janet's attention.

• Luiz (played by Camilo Gallardo) — minor

Canonical Relationships

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

• Janet Livermore → Cliff Poncier (Uncertain Romantic Interest) — Janet struggles with how much to invest in Cliff. His attempt to reconnect ends with a shattered window and a promise to replace it, leaving their future uncertain.

  Janet is infatuated with Cliff, considers ending things, and Cliff later tries to win another chance by installing a stereo for her.

• Linda Powell → Steve Dunne (Former Romantic Partners) — Their relationship is strained by work, distance, and uncertainty; they step back from romance, although Steve's late-night call suggests unresolved feelings.

  Linda and Steve develop a relationship, spend time apart because of work, and later decide to be friends.

• Linda Powell → Luiz (Romantic Interest) — Their connection grows, but Luiz's departure leaves Linda uncertain about what a long-distance relationship could become.

  Linda meets Luiz, they grow close, and he gives her a keepsake before returning to Spain, promising to come back.

Story Analysis

Seattle residents negotiate independence, work, uncertainty, and their desire for lasting connection.

Plot Progression

1. Independent Lives and New Connections — Seattle residents weigh self-reliance against the hope of lasting love. Linda meets Luiz, and their connection grows as his visa deadline approaches.
2. Love Competes with Work — Linda meets Steve through conversations about lunch and work, and their connection becomes a relationship. His absorption in work and Linda's uncertainty begin to strain their bond.
3. Distance and an Uncertain Decision — Linda's month away for work leaves Steve missing her and wondering about their future. On her return, they recognize their priorities and choose friendship, though his late call suggests unresolved fe...
4. Different Routes to Connection — Janet questions how much to invest in Cliff and considers ending their relationship. Cliff attempts to reconnect with a stereo installation, while Debbie turns to video dating in search of a partner.