A Methodist minister who lives with his sister in the small town of Mintern, California, Brother Justin suddenly finds himself plagued with strange visions and supernatural abilities.

Ben is a young farmer who is picked up by the traveling carnival when his mother dies. Shortly after, he begins to suffer from disturbing dreams and experience strange supernatural powers.

Sofie is the carnival’s fortune teller and one half of a double act with her mother, Apollonia. Although Apollonia is catatonic, she and Sofie find ways to communicate.

Rita Sue is a dancer in her family’s striptease show. She is married to Stumpy, with whom she has two daughters, Libby and Dora Mae. She develops a connection with Jonesy.

Gabriel’s mother, Ruthie is a snake charmer and barker for her son’s strongman act.

Samson, the co-manager of the traveling carnival, has close ties to the mysterious, unseen Management.

A blind mentalist who has a long history with the carnival, Lodz quickly takes interest in Ben.

Lila, also known as the “Bearded Lady of Brussels,” is the carnival’s dressmaker.

Brother Justin’s older sister, she is a devoted supporter of his ministry duties in California.

Stumpy is the manager of the striptease show. A gambling addict, he is married to Rita Sue, and has two daughters, Libby and Dora Mae.

Jonesy is an ex-baseball player who serves as Samson's right-hand man and operator of the Ferris wheel. He has a complicated history with Sofie.

A once-renowned fortune teller who read cards for the rich and famous, Apollonia has now fallen catatonic but continues to have a tight hold over her daughter, Sofie.

The carnival’s strongman, he works alongside his mother, Ruthie.

Cast & Characters

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About the Series

Carnivale