"It all comes down to who's by your side."
A Walk to Remember - Characters & Cast
Character Analysis
Landon Carter
Shane West
Motivation
Initially to avoid expulsion; later, to make Jamie happy and be the man she sees in him.
Character Arc
Starts as an aimless, peer-pressured bully who hurts others to maintain status. Through his relationship with Jamie, he learns responsibility, compassion, and self-worth. He ends the film as a medical student, driven by the desire to help others.
Jamie Sullivan
Mandy Moore
Motivation
To live her life according to God's plan and to witness a miracle before she dies.
Character Arc
She remains steadfast in her character but evolves from a social pariah to a beloved figure in Landon's life. Her arc is about opening her heart to romantic love despite knowing her time is short.
Reverend Hegbert Sullivan
Peter Coyote
Motivation
To protect his dying daughter from heartbreak and the world.
Character Arc
Initially hostile toward Landon due to his reputation and family history. He eventually softens, realizing Landon's love is genuine, and allows the marriage.
Cynthia Carter
Daryl Hannah
Motivation
To see her son find his path.
Character Arc
She watches her son with concern but gives him the space to grow. She is the first to notice the positive change Jamie brings out in him.