The Hate U Give - Characters & Cast

Initially motivated by fear and a desire to protect her family and maintain the separation of her two lives, her primary motivation becomes seeking justice for Khalil. She feels a profound sense of responsibility as the sole witness to tell the truth about his death and challenge the racist narrative being pushed by the media and the police.

Starr begins as a teenager fractured between two identities, afraid to bring her full self into the white spaces she navigates. After witnessing Khalil's death, she is paralyzed by trauma and fear. Her journey is one of finding her voice, moving from a passive witness to a powerful activist. She learns to integrate her two worlds, embrace her Blackness without apology, and use her unique position as a bridge to demand justice, ultimately becoming a leader in her community.

Maverick is driven by a profound love for his family and his community. He is motivated by the principles of the Black Power movement, seeking to instill pride, self-knowledge, and a strong sense of justice in his children. He wants to protect them while also preparing them to fight the systemic racism they will inevitably face.

A former gang member who spent time in prison, Maverick has transformed his life to become a pillar of his community and a devoted family man. He is staunchly committed to staying in Garden Heights to help improve it from within. His arc involves learning to balance his fierce principles with the immediate safety of his family, ultimately agreeing to move after his daughter's life is directly threatened, showing that his love for his children is his highest value.

Lisa's motivation is the unconditional protection and support of her children. She balances Maverick's ideological focus with a grounded understanding of emotional needs and practical dangers. She pushes Starr to be brave but also wants to shield her from harm, embodying the protective instincts of a mother in a dangerous world.

Lisa acts as the family's emotional center and a voice of pragmatism. While she supports Maverick's principles, her primary concern is always the safety and emotional well-being of her children. She is the driving force behind moving out of Garden Heights. Her arc shows her unwavering strength as she supports Starr through immense trauma, offering wisdom and empathy, and ultimately ensuring the family's survival and stability.

Chris is motivated by his deep love for Starr. He genuinely wants to understand her world and break down the barriers between them. He is willing to step into uncomfortable situations and confront his own ignorance to be the partner she needs, proving his loyalty is not superficial.

As Starr's wealthy, white boyfriend, Chris is initially unaware of the realities of her life in Garden Heights. His arc is about moving from a colorblind ignorance to a genuine understanding of his privilege and the systemic racism Starr faces. He learns to listen and offer support not by trying to solve her problems, but by simply being present and affirming her identity, demonstrating the potential for true allyship.