Phawnee, pronounced “Fawn-E,” is a dynamic, outspoken and complex 16-year-old African American male. His unique fashion sense and fearless attitude challenge authority at every turn. Passionate about music, he uses it as a refuge from life's chaos. However, beneath this defiance lies a hidden battle with his sexual identity, making love and trust rare commodities.

In his fragmented family, Phawnee's strained relationship with stepfather Cornell and distant connection with his mother, Niecy, amplify the story's exploration of family secrets and their consequences.

As a pivotal character, Phawnee's rebellious spirit, love for music, and inner turmoil add depth and relatability to the narrative.

Denise "Niecy" Miller, 38, is a character torn between loyalty and her own desires. With an athletic and authoritative presence, she openly embraces her bisexuality. Her marriage to Cornell is marked by a complex power dynamic, including moments of dominance and physical abuse. Her relationship with her son, Phawnee, is distant, resembling more of an older sibling's dynamic than that of a traditional mother.

Niecy's complexity adds sensuality, power, and conflict to the family dynamics, making her a central and intriguing figure in the story.

Eleanor Benson, a 58-year-old African American woman, radiates grace and wisdom. She's a devoutly religious matriarch within the family, known for her unwavering faith and strong-willed character. Eleanor is the mother of Niecy and the grandmother of Phawnee, offering both maternal care and spiritual guidance. She challenges Niecy when necessary and is deeply concerned for Phawnee's well-being.

Eleanor's presence adds depth to the family dynamics, providing stability, wisdom, and a voice of reason during moments of conflict and crisis.