The Family Business Cast: A Complete Guide
The Family Business is an electrifying series that has captivated audiences with its gripping storyline, complex characters, and stellar cast. Based on Carl Weber’s best-selling crime drama book series, the show takes us into the lives of the Duncan family, who run a successful car dealership by day but are secretly involved in a dangerous crime network by night.
One of the most compelling aspects of The Family Business is its talented cast. From seasoned actors to rising stars, each member brings a unique flavor to the series, making it an unforgettable viewing experience. In this post, we’ll dive deep into the cast, their roles, and the stories they bring to life.
Overview of The Family Business
Before exploring the cast, let’s understand the premise of the show.
- Creator: Carl Weber
- Genre: Crime Drama
- First Aired: 2018
- Streaming Platform: BET+
- Synopsis: The Duncan family operates Duncan Motors, a high-end car dealership in New York City. Beneath their facade of wealth and success lies a web of crime, power struggles, and family loyalty.
Main Cast of The Family Business
Here’s a look at the main actors and their pivotal roles in the series.
| Actor | Character | Role Summary | Notable Works |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ernie Hudson | L.C. Duncan | Patriarch of the Duncan family; the head of both the car business and the crime empire. | Ghostbusters, Oz |
| Valarie Pettiford | Charlotte Duncan | L.C.’s wife, a strong and supportive matriarch who plays a significant role in family affairs. | Half & Half, Jumping the Broom |
| Armand Assante | Sal Dash | A rival crime boss with a complicated relationship with the Duncan family. | American Gangster, Gotti |
| Javicia Leslie | Paris Duncan | L.C.’s daughter, a fierce and independent woman with lethal skills. | Batwoman, God Friended Me |
| Darrin Dewitt Henson | Orlando Duncan | L.C.’s son, a charismatic leader being groomed to take over the family business. | Stomp the Yard, Soul Food |
| Sean Ringgold | Junior Duncan | The eldest son, often underestimated but deeply loyal to the family. | One Life to Live |
| Miguel A. Núñez Jr. | Harris Grant | The family lawyer, who often gets involved in the Duncan family’s criminal activities. | Juwanna Mann, Tour of Duty |
Deep Dive into Key Characters
1. L.C. Duncan (Ernie Hudson)
L.C. Duncan, the head of the Duncan family, is a complex character. As a successful businessman and crime lord, he must navigate challenges both in the boardroom and on the streets. Ernie Hudson brings gravitas to the role, making L.C. a commanding presence on-screen.
- Notable Moments: L.C.’s struggles to maintain family unity amid external threats.
- Why He Stands Out: His duality as a ruthless leader and loving father.
2. Charlotte Duncan (Valarie Pettiford)
Charlotte, or “Chippy,” is the glue that holds the Duncan family together. Her wisdom and strength complement L.C.’s authority. She often serves as the voice of reason in the chaotic Duncan household.
- Notable Moments: Charlotte’s unflinching support during family crises.
- Fun Fact: Pettiford’s portrayal adds depth to what could have been a stereotypical matriarchal role.
3. Paris Duncan (Javicia Leslie)
Paris is the family’s wild card. As L.C.’s youngest daughter, she is a lethal combination of beauty, brains, and brawn. Paris often takes on dangerous missions for the family, showcasing her resourcefulness and fearlessness.
- Notable Moments: Paris’s hand-to-hand combat scenes are some of the series’ highlights.
- Why Fans Love Her: Her unapologetic attitude and loyalty to her family.
Supporting Cast and Their Contributions
While the main cast drives the narrative, the supporting characters add layers of intrigue.
| Actor | Character | Role Summary |
|---|---|---|
| Tammy Townsend | Renee Duncan | Orlando’s wife, who struggles to fit into the Duncan family’s dangerous world. |
| Michael Jai White | Vegas Duncan | L.C.’s brother, a wildcard with a murky past. |
| KJ Smith | Sasha Duncan | A cousin who helps manage the family’s affairs. |
What Makes the Cast Stand Out?
Chemistry
The cast’s chemistry is one of the series’ biggest strengths. Whether it’s the sibling dynamics between Paris and Orlando or the tense rivalries with external enemies, the interactions feel authentic and engaging.
Diverse Talent
The show features actors from various backgrounds, bringing a rich tapestry of experiences to the screen. This diversity allows for nuanced storytelling that resonates with a wide audience.
Behind-the-Scenes Insights
- Casting Process: Carl Weber personally oversaw the selection of actors, ensuring they embodied the essence of their characters.
- On-Set Relationships: Many cast members have spoken about the close-knit atmosphere on set, which translates into their performances.
- Challenges: Filming action-packed sequences often required intense rehearsals and coordination.
Upcoming Developments
Fans can expect even more twists and turns as the series progresses. Rumors suggest new cast members will be introduced, and unresolved storylines will take center stage.
Fan Reactions and Reviews
The cast has garnered widespread praise for their performances. Fans particularly love Javicia Leslie’s portrayal of Paris and Ernie Hudson’s commanding presence as L.C.
“The cast of The Family Business is absolutely phenomenal. Each actor brings their A-game to every episode!” – A Viewer
Comparison Table: Cast Then vs. Now
| Actor | Early Roles | Current Work |
|---|---|---|
| Ernie Hudson | Ghostbusters | The Family Business |
| Valarie Pettiford | Half & Half | The Family Business |
| Javicia Leslie | God Friended Me | Batwoman, The Family Business |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who is the most popular character?
Paris Duncan, played by Javicia Leslie, is a fan favorite due to her dynamic personality and action-packed scenes.
2. Is the cast involved in other projects?
Yes, many cast members balance multiple projects in film, television, and theater.
Conclusion
The cast of The Family Business is the heart and soul of the series. Their stellar performances and commitment to their roles make this crime drama a must-watch. Whether you’re drawn to L.C.’s leadership, Charlotte’s strength, or Paris’s boldness, there’s something for everyone in this ensemble cast.
If you haven’t yet explored this gripping series, now’s the time to dive in and witness the magic these actors bring to the screen.
Read Also: The Family Business Season 5: Plot, Cast, Release Date, and Everything You Need to Know
