Black Beauty - Characters & Cast

Her primary motivation is to survive her various hardships and reunite with Jo, the person with whom she shares a deep, familial bond. She is also driven by an innate desire for freedom and kindness.

Black Beauty begins as a wild and free mustang, whose spirit is tested by capture and separation from her family. Initially distrustful of humans, she forms a powerful bond with Jo. Throughout her journey with various owners, she endures hardship and cruelty but never loses hope of returning to Jo. Her arc is one of resilience, demonstrating an unbreakable spirit and the enduring power of love and memory. She ultimately finds her way back to a life of peace and companionship.

Initially motivated by her own pain, her focus shifts to protecting and caring for Black Beauty. After they are separated, her driving force becomes finding and rescuing the horse she loves, which expands into a broader mission to help all horses.

Jo starts as a grief-stricken and angry teenager, resentful of her new life with her uncle after her parents' death. Her connection with Black Beauty allows her to heal and find a new purpose. She transforms from a withdrawn girl into a determined young woman who dedicates her life to animal welfare. Her journey culminates in her saving enough money to buy Birtwick and create a permanent sanctuary for horses, including Beauty.

John is motivated by a deep respect and love for horses and a desire to help them. He is also driven by a sense of responsibility for his niece, wanting to help her heal from her loss and find her way.

John is a patient and kind horse trainer who serves as a father figure to his niece, Jo. He bridges the gap between the hurt teenager and the untamed horse. He remains a steady, guiding presence throughout the first part of the film, teaching Jo about compassion and partnership with horses. He eventually reunites with Jo and Beauty at the restored Birtwick Stables.

George is motivated by his inherent decency and his affection for Jo. He stands in opposition to his family's callous treatment of animals and people, choosing empathy over status.

George is the son of the wealthy family who leases Beauty. Unlike his cruel mother and sister, George is gentle and shows kindness towards both Jo and Beauty. He develops a romantic connection with Jo and supports her. Years later, he marries Jo and helps her rebuild Birtwick, showing that his kind nature has remained steadfast.