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The television series ''
The West Wing ''The West Wing'' is an American political drama television series created by Aaron Sorkin that was originally broadcast on NBC from September 22, 1999, to May 14, 2006. The series is set primarily in the West Wing of the White House, where t ...
'' is a
political drama A political drama can describe a Theatre, play, film or TV program that has a politics, political component, whether reflecting the author's political opinion, or describing a politician or series of political events. Dramatists who have written p ...
series which was originally broadcast on
NBC The National Broadcasting Company (NBC) is an American commercial broadcast television and radio network serving as the flagship property of the NBC Entertainment division of NBCUniversal, a subsidiary of Comcast. It is one of NBCUniversal's ...
. During its seven seasons the ensemble cast of stars, recurring stars, and guest stars earned 157 acting nominations (often competing in the same category against other members of the cast) across a variety of award-granting organizations, earning 30 awards. Many actors noted for work in sitcoms appeared in dramatic roles on ''The West Wing'', including
John Goodman John Stephen Goodman (born June 20, 1952) is an American actor. He rose to prominence in television before becoming an acclaimed and popular film actor. Goodman has received List of awards and nominations received by John Goodman, various acc ...
,
Alan Alda Alan Alda (; born Alphonso Joseph D'Abruzzo; January 28, 1936) is an American actor. A six-time Emmy Award and Golden Globe Award winner and a three-time Tony Award nominee, he is best known for playing Captain Benjamin Franklin "Hawkeye" Pier ...
,
John Larroquette John Bernard Larroquette (; born November 25, 1947) is an American actor. He is known for his starring roles in the NBC military drama series '' Baa Baa Black Sheep'' (1976–1978), the NBC sitcom ''Night Court'' (1984–1992; 2023–2025) for ...
,
Christopher Lloyd Christopher Allen Lloyd (born October 22, 1938) is an American actor. He has appeared in many theater productions, films, and television shows since the 1960s. He is known for portraying Emmett Brown in the Back to the Future (franchise), ''B ...
,
Ed O'Neill Edward Leonard O'Neill (born April 12, 1946) is an American actor, comedian, and former football player. Over his career, he has earned four Screen Actors Guild Awards as well as nominations for three Primetime Emmy Awards and two Golden Globe ...
,
Matthew Perry Matthew Langford Perry (August 19, 1969 – October 28, 2023) was an American and Canadian actor, comedian, director and screenwriter. He gained international fame for starring as Chandler Bing on the NBC television sitcom ''Friends'' (1994– ...
,
Patricia Richardson Patricia Castle Richardson (born February 23, 1951) is an American actress best known for her portrayal of Jill Taylor on the American Broadcasting Company, ABC sitcom ''Home Improvement (TV series), Home Improvement'', for which she was nominat ...
,
Lily Tomlin Mary Jean "Lily" Tomlin (born September 1, 1939) is an American actress, comedian, writer, singer, and producer. Tomlin started her career in stand-up comedy and sketch comedy before transitioning her career to acting across stage and screen. ...
,
Wayne Wilderson Wayne Wilderson (born January 30, 1966) is an American actor who has had guest spots on many successful television programs. Early life and education He was born in Minneapolis, Minnesota. He graduated from Breck School in 1984 and received a ...
, and Daniel von Bargen.


Main cast

: =
Main cast In the performing arts industry such as theatre, film, or television, casting, or a casting call, is a pre-production process for selecting a certain type of actor, dancer, singer, or extra to land the role of a character in a script, screenpla ...
(credited)
: = Recurring cast (2+)


White House staff

* Madeline "Mandy" Hampton (
Moira Kelly Moira Kelly (born March 6, 1968) is an American actress. She is known for portraying Kate Moseley in the 1992 film '' The Cutting Edge'' as well as single mother Karen Roe on the teen drama '' One Tree Hill''. She is also known for playing the ...
): Political consultant during Bartlet's first campaign. Worked as a media consultant at Lennox-Chase after the campaign. Briefly consults for Democratic Senator Lloyd Russell before being hired by the White House as a political consultant and media director (season 1). She is not seen or mentioned again after the first season. * Amelia "Amy" Gardner (
Mary-Louise Parker Mary-Louise Parker (born August 2, 1964) is an American actress. After making her Broadway debut as Rita in Craig Lucas' '' Prelude to a Kiss'' in 1990 (for which she received a Tony Award nomination), Parker came to prominence for film roles ...
): Head of the Women's Leadership Coalition and influential women's rights activist. Works as a political consultant for Senator Howard Stackhouse when he runs for president. Later hired as the Chief of Staff for the Office of the First Lady. Resigns after she upsets the President (Seasons 3–5). Agrees to become the Director of Legislative Affairs in the Santos administration (season 7). * Clifford "Cliff" Calley (
Mark Feuerstein Mark Feuerstein (; born June 8, 1971) is an American actor. He had an early, recurring role on the NBC sitcom ''Caroline in the City'', playing the title character's boyfriend, and later gained notice in a guest appearance on an episode of Sex ...
): Majority Counsel for the House Government Reform and Oversight Committee during the Bartlet censure proceedings (season 3) and a Republican. During the censure hearings, he helps facilitate a schedule delay which allows Leo McGarry to avoid potentially damaging testimony. * Angela Blake ( Michael Hyatt): Worked for Leo McGarry while he was Secretary of Labor. While a political consultant, she is hired to be Director of Legislative Affairs (season 5). She is not seen or mentioned again after the budget crisis is over and Josh Lyman regains his effective leadership.


Other White House staffers

*
Dolores Landingham Mrs. Delores Landingham, played by Kathryn Joosten and Kirsten Nelson, is the fictional personal secretary for the President of the United States in the first two seasons of American serial political drama ''The West Wing''. At the end of the ...
(
Kathryn Joosten Kathryn Joosten (; December 20, 1939 – June 2, 2012) was an American actress. Her best known roles include Delores Landingham on NBC's ''The West Wing'' from 1999 to 2002 and Karen McCluskey on ABC's ''Desperate Housewives'' from 2005 to 201 ...
and
Kirsten Nelson Kirsten Nelson (born October 3, 1970) is an American actress and director best known for her role as police chief Karen Vick on the TV series ''Psych''. Early life and education Kirsten Nelson was born in Enid, Oklahoma and raised in Chicag ...
in flashback in "
Two Cathedrals "Two Cathedrals" is the 44th episode and second season finale of ''The West Wing''. It was first broadcast on May 16, 2001, on NBC. President Bartlet is beset by memories of Mrs. Landingham as her funeral approaches. Meanwhile, the staff dea ...
"): The President's executive secretary (season 1–2). Killed in a car accident (episode "18th and Potomac" at the end of season two). Appears in flashbacks (Seasons 3–4). Referred to simply as "Mrs Landingham" almost always by everyone including the president. * Deborah "Debbie" Fiderer (
Lily Tomlin Mary Jean "Lily" Tomlin (born September 1, 1939) is an American actress, comedian, writer, singer, and producer. Tomlin started her career in stand-up comedy and sketch comedy before transitioning her career to acting across stage and screen. ...
): The President's executive secretary, hired after the death of the previous secretary, Mrs Landingham (Seasons 4–7). Charlie arranges her first interview with the President against her own wishes, in which she is groggy from prescription medication and performs badly by confessing to being both a professional gambler and then an alpaca farmer. Charlie later successfully pushes for her to be re-considered. When President Bartlet learns the reason she lost her previous White House personnel job — she had defied the Director of Personnel by hiring Charlie rather than a wealthy Bartlet supporter's unqualified son — and, though appearing very quirky, he sees she is actually very smart and capable, he hires her on the spot. * Margaret Hooper (NiCole Robinson): Assistant to chiefs of staff
Leo McGarry Leo Thomas McGarry is a fictional character of the NBC political drama series ''The West Wing'', portrayed by American actor John Spencer. McGarry was the former Secretary of Labor, former White House Chief of Staff, Senior Counselor to Dem ...
(Seasons 1–6) and C. J. Cregg (Seasons 6–7). She is often focused on the minutiae of life. Particular devoted to and protective of Leo — frequently found snooping in on his private meetings — but she has a rebellious streak, so they are often at odds with their working styles. She is visibly pregnant in season 6, with no clear information about the father, and her baby is never seen on the show. * Bonnie (
Devika Parikh Devika Parikh (born November 3, 1966) is an American actress, best known for her recurring role as Bonnie in the NBC political drama series ''The West Wing'' from 1999 to 2003. Life and career Parikh was born in Cambridge, Massachusetts to a G ...
): Assistant to Communications Director
Toby Ziegler Tobias "Toby" Zachary Ziegler was a fictional character in the television serial drama ''The West Wing'', played by Richard Schiff. The role of Toby Ziegler earned actor Richard Schiff the Primetime Emmy Award for Primetime Emmy Award for Outst ...
(Seasons 1–5). * Carol Fitzpatrick (
Melissa Fitzgerald Melissa Fitzgerald is an American actress and the Senior Director of the nonprofit organization Justice For Vets. She played Carol Fitzpatrick on ''The West Wing''. Early life and education Fitzgerald grew up in the Chestnut Hill area of Phil ...
): Assistant to Press Secretary C. J. Cregg (Seasons 1–7). * Ginger (Kim Webster): Assistant to Communications Director
Toby Ziegler Tobias "Toby" Zachary Ziegler was a fictional character in the television serial drama ''The West Wing'', played by Richard Schiff. The role of Toby Ziegler earned actor Richard Schiff the Primetime Emmy Award for Primetime Emmy Award for Outst ...
and Deputy Communications Director
Sam Seaborn Samuel Norman Seaborn is a fictional character played by Rob Lowe on the television serial drama ''The West Wing''. From the beginning of the series in 1999 until the middle of the fourth season in 2003, he is deputy White House Communications ...
(Seasons 1–7). * Cathy (
Suzy Nakamura Suzy Nakamura (born December 2, 1968) is an American actress and Improvisational theatre, improv comedian. She is known for her many guest appearances on sitcoms such as ''According to Jim'', ''Half & Half (TV series), Half and Half'', ''8 Simpl ...
): Assistant to Deputy Communications Director
Sam Seaborn Samuel Norman Seaborn is a fictional character played by Rob Lowe on the television serial drama ''The West Wing''. From the beginning of the series in 1999 until the middle of the fourth season in 2003, he is deputy White House Communications ...
(season 1). * Elsie Snuffin (
Danica McKellar Danica McKellar (born January 3, 1975) is an American actress, mathematics writer, and education advocate. She is best known for playing Winnie Cooper in the television series ''The Wonder Years.'' McKellar has appeared in various television f ...
): Assistant to Deputy Communications Director Will Bailey, as well as his stepsister (season 4). * Cassie Tatum (
Claire Coffee Claire Elizabeth Coffee (born April 14, 1980) is an American actress. She is best known for her role as Adalind Schade in the NBC fantasy drama '' Grimm''. Early life Coffee grew up in Monterey, California. She attended the Santa Catalina Sch ...
): Intern at the White House Press Office (season 4). * Lauren Romano (Lara Phillips): Intern at the White House Press Office (season 4). * Lauren Shelby (
Kimberlee Peterson Kimberlee Michelle Peterson (born May 8, 1980) is an American television and film actress. Background Peterson was born in Boise, Idaho, but raised in Colorado. At the age of four, Peterson began her career as a child actress in episodes of '' ...
): Intern at the White House Press Office (season 4). * Lauren Chin (Catherine Kwong): Intern at the White House Press Office (season 4). * Marina ("Rina") (Melissa Marsala): Assistant to Communications Director
Toby Ziegler Tobias "Toby" Zachary Ziegler was a fictional character in the television serial drama ''The West Wing'', played by Richard Schiff. The role of Toby Ziegler earned actor Richard Schiff the Primetime Emmy Award for Primetime Emmy Award for Outst ...
(season 5). Causes consternation among staff members by wearing revealing outfits in the West Wing office areas, raising concerns over potential harassment complaints or perceived lack of professionalism. * Nancy (
Renée Estevez Renée Pilar Estevez (born April 2, 1967) is an American former actress. Early years Estevez was born in New York City, the youngest child and only daughter of artist Janet (née Templeton) and actor Martin Sheen (legally Ramón Estévez). Her f ...
): President's Confidential Assistant (Seasons 1–7). Estevez is the daughter of Martin Sheen, who plays the President. * Ed (Peter James Smith): White House staffer usually seen with Larry. * Larry (William Duffy): White House staffer usually seen with Ed. * Ryan Pierce (
Jesse Bradford Jesse Bradford Watrouse (born May 28, 1979), known professionally as Jesse Bradford, is an American actor. He began his career as a child actor at age five and received two Young Artist Award for Best Leading Young Actor in a Feature Film nomina ...
): White House intern assigned to Josh and nephew of a powerful senator; great-great-great-grandson of the 14th U.S. president,
Franklin Pierce Franklin Pierce (November 23, 1804October 8, 1869) was the 14th president of the United States, serving from 1853 to 1857. A northern Democratic Party (United States), Democrat who believed that the Abolitionism in the United States, abolitio ...
(Season 5). Toward the end of that season, he becomes a top aide to a Democratic congressman whom Josh dislikes, and is not seen or mentioned after that. * Curtis Carruthers (Ben Murray): Succeeds Charlie Young as personal aide to the President (season 6).


Office of the White House Counsel

* Lionel Tribbey (
John Larroquette John Bernard Larroquette (; born November 25, 1947) is an American actor. He is known for his starring roles in the NBC military drama series '' Baa Baa Black Sheep'' (1976–1978), the NBC sitcom ''Night Court'' (1984–1992; 2023–2025) for ...
): The fourth
White House Counsel The White House Counsel is a senior staff appointee of the president of the United States whose role is to advise the president on all legal issues concerning the president and their administration. The White House counsel also oversees the Off ...
of the Bartlet administration and the first to appear in the series. He has very liberal views and is animated and theatrical. * Oliver Babish (
Oliver Platt Oliver Platt (born January 12, 1960) is an American actor known for his work on stage and screen. He has been nominated for five Primetime Emmys, a Golden Globe Award, two Screen Actors Guild Awards and one Tony Award. Following his acting deb ...
): The fifth and final White House Counsel of the Bartlet administration and the second of the two characters to be shown in that position during the series. Diligent and zealous, he first appears advising President Bartlet when the President is considering revealing his diagnosis of
multiple sclerosis Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease resulting in damage to myelinthe insulating covers of nerve cellsin the brain and spinal cord. As a demyelinating disease, MS disrupts the nervous system's ability to Action potential, transmit ...
to the public. He appears connected to this plot-line into season three, then returns to the series in season seven to participate in the White House's internal investigation into the military shuttle leak. He later decamps to a law firm in the wake of the outgoing Bartlet Administration and is later mentioned by Santos as a potential choice for
Attorney General In most common law jurisdictions, the attorney general (: attorneys general) or attorney-general (AG or Atty.-Gen) is the main legal advisor to the government. In some jurisdictions, attorneys general also have executive responsibility for law enf ...
. He is described by Josh Lyman as "smart and tough". * Ainsley Hayes (
Emily Procter Emily Procter (born October 8, 1968) is an American actress and activist. She played Ainsley Hayes in the NBC political drama ''The West Wing'' (2000–2002; 2006) and Det. Calleigh Duquesne in the CBS police procedural drama '' CSI: Miami'' ...
): Associate (and proposed Deputy) White House Counsel (Seasons 2–3). Conservative Republican from North Carolina. Graduate of Harvard Law School. After she soundly defeats and embarrasses Sam during a debate on the political talk show ''Capital Beat'', President Bartlet tells Leo McGarry to offer her a job, which after initially believing she is being rebuked, she thinks is either a joke or a terrible idea, but when seeing the White House staff in action in a crisis, leads her to accept the Associate White House Counsel's post. Primarily, she appears as a foil to Sam Seaborn, making him reconsider his position on policies. She briefly reappears in season 7, wanting to become White House Counsel for the Santos Administration with Josh planning on getting her a meeting with Santos. * Joe Quincy (
Matthew Perry Matthew Langford Perry (August 19, 1969 – October 28, 2023) was an American and Canadian actor, comedian, director and screenwriter. He gained international fame for starring as Chandler Bing on the NBC television sitcom ''Friends'' (1994– ...
): Associate White House Counsel (Seasons 4–5). Republican. He uncovers Vice President Hoynes's leaking of information during an affair with local socialite Helen Baldwin, ultimately leading to Hoynes's resignation. * Mike Wayne ( Benjamin Brown): Associate White House Counsel (season 4–7). Deals with Toby after he admits to being the source of the military space shuttle leak. * Richard Squire (
Michael Kostroff Michael Kostroff (born May 22, 1961) is an American actor. He appeared on the HBO program ''The Wire'' as defense attorney Maurice Levy. Kostroff starred in the fifth season of the series and appeared in all four earlier seasons as a guest star. ...
): Associate White House Counsel (season 6). Graduate of
Yale Law School Yale Law School (YLS) is the law school of Yale University, a Private university, private research university in New Haven, Connecticut. It was established in 1824. The 2020–21 acceptance rate was 4%, the lowest of any law school in the United ...
and a
Rhodes Scholar The Rhodes Scholarship is an international Postgraduate education, postgraduate award for students to study at the University of Oxford in Oxford, United Kingdom. The scholarship is open to people from all backgrounds around the world. Esta ...
.


Situation Room

* Admiral Percy "Fitz" Fitzwallace (
John Amos John Allen Amos Jr. (December 27, 1939 – August 21, 2024) was an American actor. He was best known for his role as James Evans Sr. on the CBS television series ''Good Times''. His other well known roles were as the adult Kunta Kinte in the l ...
):
Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff The chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff (CJCS) is the presiding officer of the Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS). The chairman is the highest-ranking and most senior military officer in the United States Armed Forces Chairman: appointment; gra ...
(Seasons 1–5). Fitzwallace is a career
surface warfare Surface warfare is naval warfare involving surface ships. It is one of the four operational areas of naval warfare, the others being underwater warfare, aerial warfare, and information warfare. Surface warfare is the oldest and most basic for ...
officer. Following his retirement, while he is on a special diplomatic mission in
Palestine Palestine, officially the State of Palestine, is a country in West Asia. Recognized by International recognition of Palestine, 147 of the UN's 193 member states, it encompasses the Israeli-occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem, and th ...
at Bartlet's particular request, he is killed in a terrorist road-side bombing of his car, in which Donna Moss is also badly injured, at the culmination of the fifth season. * General Nicholas Alexander (
Terry O'Quinn Terrance Quinn (born July 15, 1952), known professionally as Terry O'Quinn, is an American actor. He won a Primetime Emmy Award for his performance as John Locke on the TV series '' Lost'' (2004–2010). In film, he also played the title role i ...
): an ex-
Green Beret The green beret was the official headdress of the British Commandos, a special-forces unit active during World War II. It is still worn by members of the Royal Marines after passing the Commando Course, and personnel from other units of the Roy ...
. He succeeds Admiral Fitzwallace as a much more hawkish Chairman of the
Joint Chiefs of Staff The Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) is the body of the most senior uniformed leaders within the United States Department of Defense, which advises the president of the United States, the secretary of defense, the Homeland Security Council and ...
(Seasons 5–6). * Dr. Nancy McNally (
Anna Deavere Smith Anna Deavere Smith (born September 18, 1950) is an American actress, playwright, and professor. She is known for her roles as National Security Advisor Dr. Nancy McNally in ''The West Wing'' (2000–06), hospital administrator Gloria Akalitus i ...
): National Security Advisor. She can appear to be either a ' war dove' or ' war hawk' depending upon the situation, but is always fair and usually right on the money with a situation. It is suggested that she becomes U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations (Seasons 2–7). * Lieutenant Commander Jack Reese (
Christian Slater Christian Michael Leonard Slater (born August 18, 1969) is an American actor. He made his film debut with a leading role in '' The Legend of Billie Jean'' (1985) and gained wider recognition for his breakout role as Jason "J.D." Dean, a sociopath ...
): Aide to National Security Advisor Nancy McNally (season 4) and briefly dates Donna. * Commander Kate Harper (
Mary McCormack Mary Catherine McCormack (born February 8, 1969) is an American actress. She has had leading roles as Justine Appleton on the series '' Murder One'' (1995–1997), as Deputy National Security Adviser Kate Harper on ''The West Wing'' (2004–20 ...
): Deputy National Security Advisor (Seasons 5–7), who takes on many of Nancy McNally's White House duties. * Lieutenant General Alan Adamle (
Gerald McRaney Gerald Lee McRaney (born August 19, 1947) is an American television and film actor. McRaney is best known as one of the stars of the television shows ''Simon & Simon'', '' Major Dad'', ''Promised Land'' and '' House of Cards''. He most recently s ...
): A three-star general in the USAF. Meets with Leo to discuss the
International Criminal Court The International Criminal Court (ICC) is an intergovernmental organization and International court, international tribunal seated in The Hague, Netherlands. It is the first and only permanent international court with jurisdiction to prosecute ...
in episode 3.05 and stuns Leo by revealing Leo once (completely inadvertently) bombed a non-military target and killed innocent civilians, telling a devastated Leo this story to lead to his view that "All wars are crimes". He also briefs then President-elect Bartlet on a small delegation of military advisers being sent to the Philippines three days after the presidential election in episode 5.22. Served with Leo in Vietnam. * General Shannon ( Daniel von Bargen): Appears in episodes (2.01) and (2.10). A four-star general in the
USAF The United States Air Force (USAF) is the Air force, air service branch of the United States Department of Defense. It is one of the six United States Armed Forces and one of the eight uniformed services of the United States. Tracing its ori ...
; Leo calls him "Jack" in his first episode and "Ken" in his second appearance. He seems to be the senior officer in the Situation Room in episode 2.01 until Nancy McNally arrives. * Lieutenant General Ed Barrie (
Tom Bower Thomas Michael Bower (born 28 September 1946) is a British writer and former BBC journalist and television producer. He is known for his investigative journalism and for his unauthorised biographies, often of business tycoons and newspaper pr ...
): Army Chief of Staff. He appears in episode 2.05 berating C.J. for reprimanding his intentions to condemn on TV the President's failure to ensure military preparedness before his retirement, but is left silent when C.J. tells him he is wearing a Distinguished Combat Service Medal he had not earned; later however, Bartlet says the General served his country bravely and would face no White House censorship of any of his views. Despite being identified as Army Chief of Staff, he is portrayed as a three-star
lieutenant general Lieutenant general (Lt Gen, LTG and similar) is a military rank used in many countries. The rank traces its origins to the Middle Ages, where the title of lieutenant general was held by the second-in-command on the battlefield, who was norma ...
. * General Mitch Jensen (Christopher Kriesa): A three-star Army general. Present in the Situation Room during discussions of retaliatory options to Morris Tolliver's USAF medical transport being shot down in episode 1.03. Also advises the President on the India–Kashmir crisis in episodes 1.11 and 1.12. * Colonel Mark Chase (
David Graf Paul David Graf (April 16, 1950 – April 7, 2001) was an American actor, best known for his role as Sgt. Eugene Tackleberry in the ''Police Academy'' series of films. Early life and education Graf was born in Zanesville, Ohio, and later mo ...
): Air Force officer who advises Leo on a crisis with Iraqi oil smugglers in episode 2.07, and monitors the Missile Defense Shield test in episode 2.12. * CIA Director George Rollie (
Ryan Cutrona Ryan Cutrona (born July 29, 1949) is an American actor. He is best known for playing gruff authority figures and military men in both dramatic and comedic roles in films and on television. Career The second son of Joseph F. H. "Pro Joe" Cu ...
): President Bartlet does not trust or like him, but as C.J. and Toby note in " 365 Days", his pariah status is useful because it prevents the President from tearing down anyone else during tense situations. * Mr Cashman: (unseen character) Often mentioned alongside Secretaries Hutchinson and Berryhill, implied to be a senior official at one of the Executive Branch departments, the department of either State or Defense (Seasons 1–2). * Bobby Dunn (Gary Cervantes): Appears in episodes (1.11), (1.22), (2.01), (2.10), and (2.21); apparently a State Department official. * Albie Duncan (
Hal Holbrook Harold Rowe Holbrook Jr. (February 17, 1925 – January 23, 2021) was an American actor. He first received critical acclaim in 1954 for a one-man stage show that he developed called ''Mark Twain Tonight!'' while studying at Denison University. H ...
): Assistant Secretary of State (office unstated). Longtime Republican and State Department elder (more than 40 years); is brought in by Leo (to the President's discomfort and displeasure) to counsel the President on the submarine crisis off of North Korea in episode (3.06); later brought in by Toby during the reelection campaign to help C.J. spin the post-debate in episode (4.06). * Ted Barrow (
Ron Canada Ronald Ellis Canada (born May 3, 1949) is an American actor and producer, with a specialty in portraying judges and detectives. He is best known for '' One on One'' (2001–2004), '' The Shield'' (2003–2004), and '' Lone Star'' (1996). Early ...
):
Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs Assistant may refer to: * Assistant (by Speaktoit), a virtual assistant app for smartphones * Assistant (software), a software tool to assist in computer configuration * Google Assistant, a virtual assistant by Google * The Assistant (TV series), ...
. Appears in Seasons 5–7. In season 5, tends to be harsh with the senior staffers and notably sympathetic to the views of North Korea; in later appearances, he is more measured and diplomatic. * Bob Slattery (
Thomas Kopache Thomas Kopache (born October 17, 1945) is an American actor. Career Kopache was born in Manchester, New Hampshire, the son of Dorothy E. (née Sterling). He is known for his roles as Assistant Secretary of State Bob Slattery in ''The West Wing'' ...
):
Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs The assistant secretary of state for Near Eastern affairs is the head of the Bureau of Near Eastern Affairs within the United States Department of State. The assistant secretary guides the operation of the U.S. diplomatic establishment in vario ...
. Appears in Seasons 3–7. * Miguel "Mickey" Troop (
Tony Plana José Antonio Plana (born April 19, 1952) is a Cuban-American actor and director. He is known for playing Betty Suarez's father, Ignacio Suarez, on the ABC television show ''Ugly Betty'' and for voicing Manuel "Manny" Calavera in the video ga ...
):
Assistant Secretary of State for Western Hemisphere Affairs The Assistant Secretary of State for Western Hemisphere Affairs is the head of the Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs within the United States Department of State, the foreign affairs department of the United States federal government. The As ...
. Appears in season 2; advises the President on the DEA hostage crisis in
Colombia Colombia, officially the Republic of Colombia, is a country primarily located in South America with Insular region of Colombia, insular regions in North America. The Colombian mainland is bordered by the Caribbean Sea to the north, Venezuel ...
, where he pushes for negotiations over a military solution and later outlines how dangerous and deadly a U.S. war against the major cartels would be. * Mike Chysler (
Glenn Morshower Glenn Morshower (born April 24, 1959) is an American actor and inspirational speaker. Known for his distinctive Texas accent, he is well known for playing military and law enforcement roles in both live-action and voice work, particularly Secret ...
): (occasionally "Jack"); adviser to the President during his first term, regularly appearing in the Situation Room. Briefs the President on the DEA hostage crisis; also advises the President during the prelude to the assassination of Abdul Shareef near the end of Season 3. Appears in Seasons 2–4.


Secret Service/FBI

* Ron Butterfield ( Michael O'Neill): Head of the President's
Secret Service A secret service is a government agency, intelligence agency, or the activities of a government agency, concerned with the gathering of intelligence data. The tasks and powers of a secret service can vary greatly from one country to another. For i ...
detail (Seasons 1–7). * Mike Casper (
Clark Gregg Robert Clark Gregg Jr. (born April 2, 1962) is an American actor, director, and screenwriter. He portrayed Phil Coulson in films and television series set in the Marvel Cinematic Universe from 2008 to 2024, and voiced Coulson in an animated tele ...
): FBI Special Agent, usually acting White House liaison (Seasons 2–5). * Simon Donovan (
Mark Harmon Thomas Mark Harmon (born September 2, 1951) is an American actor, writer, producer, television director and former American football, football player. He is best known for playing the lead role of Leroy Jethro Gibbs on ''NCIS (TV series), NCIS'' ...
): Secret Service agent assigned to protect C. J. Cregg and develops a close relationship with her. Killed when he walks into an armed robbery (season 3). * Gina Toscano (
Jorja Fox Jorja Fox (born July 7, 1968) is an American actress. She first came to prominence with a recurring role in the NBC medical drama '' ER'' as Dr. Maggie Doyle from 1996 to 1999. This was followed by another critical success in the recurring rol ...
): Secret Service agent assigned to protect Zoey Bartlet (Seasons 1–2) * Wesley Davis (
Taye Diggs Scott Leo "Taye" Diggs (né Berry; born January 2, 1971) is an American actor. He is known for his roles in the Broadway musicals '' Rent'' and '' Hedwig and the Angry Inch'', the TV series '' Private Practice'' (2007–2013), '' Murder in ...
): In charge of Zoey Bartlet's secret service detail when she is abducted (season 4) * Molly O'Connor (Kimberly Bigsby): A young agent on Zoey's detail. Shot dead during Zoey's kidnapping. Toby and Andy's daughter is named in her memory (season 4). * Randy Weathers (Shannon Marshall): Another young agent on Zoey Bartlet's detail (season 4) * Jamie Reed (John Antonini): Another young agent on Zoey Bartlet's detail (season 4) * Tom Connelly: FBI Director. Referred to in episode (Ep. 1.03). * George Arnold (
Michael Kagan Michael Kagan is an American actor. Career He has guest starred in number of notable television series, including '' Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman'', ''Babylon 5'', '' Step by Step'', ''Seinfeld'', '' ER'', '' Tracey Takes On. ...
): FBI Director (Ep. 5.18; 6.1).


Politicians


Federal executive branch

* Matt Santos (
Jimmy Smits Jimmy L. Smits (born July 9, 1955) is an American actor. He is best known for playing attorney Victor Sifuentes on the legal drama ''L.A. Law'', NYPD Detective Bobby Simone on the police drama ''NYPD Blue'', and Matt Santos on the political dr ...
): Democratic candidate for president in 2006. Succeeds
Josiah Bartlet Josiah Edward "Jed" Bartlet is a fictional character from the American television serial drama ''The West Wing'' created by Aaron Sorkin and portrayed by actor Martin Sheen. The role earned Sheen a Golden Globe Award for Best Actor – Televi ...
as President of the United States. Three-term U.S. Representative from Texas. Frustrated at legislative setbacks in the House, Santos is on the verge of announcing a decision not to seek re-election, but instead is convinced by Josh Lyman to launch a long-shot campaign for the presidency (Seasons 6–7). * John Hoynes (
Tim Matheson Tim Matheson (born Timothy Lewis Matthieson; December 31, 1947) is an American actor and director. Some of his best-known acting roles include the title character of the 1960s animated ''Jonny Quest (TV series), Jonny Quest'' TV series, Eric "O ...
): President Bartlet's first vice president. President Bartlet's rival for the 1998 Democratic presidential nomination. Resigned from office while under fire for leaking classified material to a woman he was having an affair with. Candidate for the Democratic nomination for the 2006 election. (Seasons 1–7) * Robert "Bob" Russell (
Gary Cole Gary Michael Cole (born September 20, 1956) is an American actor. He began his professional acting career on stage at Chicago's Steppenwolf Theatre Company in 1985. His breakout role was playing Jack 'Nighthawk' Killian in the NBC series '' M ...
): President Bartlet's vice president after the resignation of John Hoynes and a candidate for the Democratic nomination for the 2006 election (Seasons 5–7). * Lewis Berryhill (
William Devane William Joseph Devane (born September 5, 1939) is an American actor. He is known for his role as Greg Sumner on the primetime soap opera ''Knots Landing'' (1983–1993) and as James Heller on the Fox serial dramas '' 24'' (2001–2010) and '' ...
): Secretary of State. He was nearly nominated by President Bartlet for the office of vice president after John Hoynes' resignation (Seasons 1, 4–5). * Miles Hutchinson ( Steve Ryan): Secretary of Defense. He often disagreed, loudly and at length, with the policy decisions of President Bartlet (Seasons 4–7). * Roger Tribbey (
Harry Groener Harry Groener (born September 10, 1951) is an American actor and dancer, perhaps best known for playing Mayor Wilkins in ''Buffy the Vampire Slayer'' (seasons 3, 4 and 7). Early life Groener was born in Augsburg, Bavaria, West Germany, to an op ...
): Secretary of Agriculture. Chosen to be the Cabinet's "
designated survivor In the United States, a designated survivor (or designated successor) is a person in the presidential line of succession who is kept distant from others in the line when they are gathered together, to reduce the chance that everyone in the line ...
" during President Bartlet's first State of the Union address, later during the second term expressed concern about divided leadership when President Bartlet proposed invoking the 25th Amendment (Seasons 1 and 4).


Federal legislative branch

* Senator Seth Gillette (
Ed Begley, Jr. Edward James Begley Jr. (born September 16, 1949) is an American actor and environmental activist. He has appeared in hundreds of films, television shows, and stage performances. He played Dr. Victor Ehrlich on the television series '' St. Elsew ...
): Democrat from
North Dakota North Dakota ( ) is a U.S. state in the Upper Midwest, named after the indigenous Dakota people, Dakota and Sioux peoples. It is bordered by the Canadian provinces of Saskatchewan and Manitoba to the north and by the U.S. states of Minneso ...
. He threatened to run against President Bartlet as a third-party candidate on a more left-wing platform in the 2002 election (Ep 2.14). * Rep. Jeff Haffley (
Steven Culp Steven Bradford Culp (born December 3, 1955) is an American actor. Culp appeared in films '' Jason Goes to Hell: The Final Friday'' (1993), '' James and the Giant Peach'' (1996), ''The Emperor's Club'' (2002), and most notably in the 2000 politic ...
): Republican from
Washington Washington most commonly refers to: * George Washington (1732–1799), the first president of the United States * Washington (state), a state in the Pacific Northwest of the United States * Washington, D.C., the capital of the United States ** A ...
; House Majority Whip, 1997–2003, Speaker of the House, 2003–2007 * Senator Howard Stackhouse (
George Coe George Coe (born George Julian Cohen; May 10, 1929 – July 18, 2015) was an American actor. He was a cast member for the first season of ''Saturday Night Live'' and voiced the character of Woodhouse in '' Archer''. Early life Coe was bor ...
) Democrat from
Minnesota Minnesota ( ) is a U.S. state, state in the Upper Midwestern region of the United States. It is bordered by the Canadian provinces of Manitoba and Ontario to the north and east and by the U.S. states of Wisconsin to the east, Iowa to the so ...
. He ran a liberal third-party candidacy for the Presidency in 2002 but later endorsed President Bartlet (Ep 2–17, 4.04, 4–06). * Senator
Arnold Vinick Arnold Vinick is a fictional character from the television series ''The West Wing (television), The West Wing'' played by Alan Alda. The role earned Alda a Primetime Emmy Award for Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama ...
 (
Alan Alda Alan Alda (; born Alphonso Joseph D'Abruzzo; January 28, 1936) is an American actor. A six-time Emmy Award and Golden Globe Award winner and a three-time Tony Award nominee, he is best known for playing Captain Benjamin Franklin "Hawkeye" Pier ...
): Republican from California. Republican candidate for president in 2006 (Seasons 6–7). Nominee for Secretary of State in Santos Administration (season 7). Senator from 1983 to 2007, was California's senior US Senator in 2006. Chairman of a powerful Senate Committee (either Judiciary or Finance), and also served on the Foreign Relations and Environment Committees. * Rep. Glen Allen Walken (
John Goodman John Stephen Goodman (born June 20, 1952) is an American actor. He rose to prominence in television before becoming an acclaimed and popular film actor. Goodman has received List of awards and nominations received by John Goodman, various acc ...
): Republican from
Missouri Missouri (''see #Etymology and pronunciation, pronunciation'') is a U.S. state, state in the Midwestern United States, Midwestern region of the United States. Ranking List of U.S. states and territories by area, 21st in land area, it border ...
; House Majority Whip, 1995–1997; House Majority Leader, 1997–2001; Speaker of the House, 2001–2003. He became Acting President of the United States when President Bartlet temporarily relinquished power. Later a contender for the Republican presidential nomination in the 2006 election, though he never appeared on screen in that capacity.


State governors

* Eric Baker (
Ed O'Neill Edward Leonard O'Neill (born April 12, 1946) is an American actor, comedian, and former football player. Over his career, he has earned four Screen Actors Guild Awards as well as nominations for three Primetime Emmy Awards and two Golden Globe ...
): Governor of Pennsylvania. He is widely tipped as a front runner for the Democratic nomination for president in 2006, but Baker's surprise decision not to run at the outset leaves the race wide open. When the convention is deadlocked, Baker enters the race from the floor as a draft candidate, but withdraws over fallout due to the discovery of his non-disclosure of his wife's depression. President-elect Santos nominates him for vice president following the death of Leo McGarry. (Seasons 6—7) * Robert Ritchie (
James Brolin Craig Kenneth Bruderlin (born July 18, 1940), known professionally as James Brolin, is an American actor. Brolin has won two Golden Globe Awards, Golden Globes and an Emmy Awards, Emmy. He received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on August ...
): Governor of Florida. He was the Republican nominee for president in 2002 but was defeated by President Bartlet. (Seasons 3—4) *Ray Sullivan (
Brett Cullen Peter Brett Cullen (born August 26, 1956) is an American actor. He is best known for his roles as Dan Fixx in ''Falcon Crest'' (1986–1988), Sam Cain in '' The Young Riders'' (1989–1990), Governor Ray Sullivan in ''The West Wing'' (2005–2 ...
): Governor of West Virginia. Republican nominee for vice president in 2006. Served as a U.S. Attorney and Attorney General of West Virginia before becoming governor. (Seasons 6–7)


Foreign officials

* Maureen Graty (
Pamela Salem Pamela Fortunee Salem (22 January 1944 – 21 February 2024) was a British film and television actress. She was born in Bombay, India, and educated at Wispers School and Heidelberg University in Germany, and later at the Central School of Sp ...
): Prime Minister of the United Kingdom (season 6) * Lord John Marbury (
Roger Rees Roger Rees (5 May 1944 – 10 July 2015) was a Welsh-American actor and director. He won an Olivier Award and a Tony Award for his performance as the lead in ''The Life and Adventures of Nicholas Nickleby (play), The Life and Adventures of Nicho ...
): British ambassador * Defense Minister Abdul ibn Shareef of
Qumar ''The West Wing'' is an American political drama television series created by Aaron Sorkin that was originally broadcast on NBC from September 22, 1999, to May 14, 2006. The series is set primarily in the West Wing of the White House, where t ...
 (Al No'mani): Brother of the Sultan and terrorist leader, assassinated by the United States. (Ep. 3.22)


Campaign staff

* Bruno Gianelli (
Ron Silver Ronald Arthur Silver (July 2, 1946 – March 15, 2009) was an American actor, director, producer, radio host, and activist. As an actor, he portrayed Henry Kissinger, Alan Dershowitz and Angelo Dundee. He was awarded a Tony in 1988 for Best ...
): A sharp political operative and consultant introduced in the third season as the campaign manager of Bartlet's 2002 bid for reelection, his unmatched track record of victories includes a House district that no Democrat has won for decades, several different U.S. senators and state governors, and a win for an unspecified Israeli prime minister. The character reappears as Eric Baker's campaign manager for the 2006 Democratic primary, only to become an independent consultant to Republican nominee Arnold Vinick after Baker withdraws from the race. The change of political affiliations mirrored Ron Silver's real-world change of party affiliation, as the noted liberal actor campaigned for President
George W. Bush George Walker Bush (born July 6, 1946) is an American politician and businessman who was the 43rd president of the United States from 2001 to 2009. A member of the Bush family and the Republican Party (United States), Republican Party, he i ...
in the 2004 presidential election. * Josephine "Joey" Lucas (
Marlee Matlin Marlee Matlin (born August 24, 1965) is an American actress, activist, and author. Deafness, Deaf since she was 18 months old, Matlin is known for her portrayals of deaf women, and for her activism on behalf of deaf individuals in Cinema of the ...
): A political consultant and pollster who is often hired by the White House and Democratic campaigns. Usually, her interactions with Bartlet or Matt Santos are arranged by Josh Lyman, who has a crush on her early on. However, their relationship remains platonic and professional. Lucas first appears in the first season as the hard-hitting, sarcastic campaign manager for a Democratic House candidate whom the White House does not take seriously. She is then contracted to conduct a secret poll to determine whether the American public would accept the president's MS. Like Matlin, Lucas is deaf. * Kenny Thurman ( Bill O'Brien): Joey Lucas's
sign language interpreter Interpreting is translation from a spoken or signed language into another language, usually in real time to facilitate live communication. It is distinguished from the translation of a written text, which can be more deliberative and make use o ...
(Seasons 1–7). * Connie Tate (
Connie Britton Connie Britton (born Constance Elaine Womack; March 6, 1967) is an American actress. Her accolades include nominations for five Primetime Emmy Awards and two Golden Globe Awards. She gained prominence for her roles in the television series ''S ...
): A Bartlet-Hoynes reelection campaign staffer (season 3), she is a likable woman who quickly befriends Sam Seaborn. Often wins points by smoothing feathers ruffled by her acerbic co-worker Doug Wegland. * Doug Wegland (
Evan Handler Evan Handler (born January 10, 1961) is an American actor who is best known for playing Harry Goldenblatt, a divorce attorney and later husband of Charlotte York, on '' Sex and the City'' (2002–2004) and its revival series '' And Just Like That ...
): A Bartlet–Hoynes reelection campaign staffer and speechwriter (season 3), he is acerbic and finds himself offside with Toby Ziegler but ends up winning the staffers' respect with his good ideas and staunch belief in them (particularly his push for a presidential veto on the "death tax" that leads to a major political victory for the administration). * Kevin Kahn (
Patrick Breen Joseph Patrick Breen (born October 26, 1960) is an American actor, playwright, screenwriter, and director. Early life Breen was born in Brooklyn, New York, on October 26, 1960. He attended Tottenville High School in Staten Island. Career He ...
): Former friend of Sam Seaborn. He is a staffer on Ritchie's 2002 presidential campaign (season 3) who ends up humiliating Sam by leaking an attack ad that makes the Bartlet campaign look vindictive and stupid. * Dylan Clark ( Tim Kelleher): Hoynes' campaign manager (season 6).


Santos campaign

* Louise "Lou" Thornton (
Janeane Garofalo Janeane Garofalo ( ; born September 28, 1964) is an American comedian, actress, and former co-host on Air America Radio's '' The Majority Report''. The accolades she has received include nominations for two Primetime Emmy Awards and a Screen Act ...
): an intelligent lobbyist described by Santos as having a "completely different take on the campaign" and by Josh as knowing "image stuff backwards and sideways", she only reluctantly agrees to Josh's request to join the Santos—–McGarry campaign as Director of Communications, when Santos agrees she can report to him directly. She acts as Josh's ''de facto'' deputy throughout the campaign, and at Josh's persuasion, accepts her appointment as Santos's Director of Communications (season 7). * Ronna Beckman (Karis Campbell): Santos's personal assistant. She is present from the very beginning of Matt Santos's campaign for the presidency in season 6 (appearing as part of his Congressional staff). In her final appearance, Deborah Fiderer trains her as Santos's executive secretary, warning her never to revoke the First Lady's walk-in privileges, even as the President is certain to request it. She has a relationship with another female staffer (Cindy) on the Santos campaign. * Edie Ortega (
Diana-Maria Riva Diana Maria Riva is an American actress, known for her performances on television. She was a regular cast member in series including ''Philly'' (2001–02), ''Side Order of Life'' (2007), '' The Good Guys'' (2010), ''Telenovela'' (2015–16) an ...
): Santos—–McGarry Deputy Campaign Manager for Strategic Planning (season 7). * Lester (
Cress Williams Cress Williams (born July 26, 1970) is an American actor, known for his roles in ''Prison Break'' and ''Close to Home (2005 TV series), Close to Home''. His most recent roles include Mayor Lavon Hayes on The CW Television Network, The CW series ' ...
): Santos—–McGarry Campaign Consultant (season 7). * Bram Howard (
Matthew Del Negro Matthew Del Negro (born August 2, 1972) is an American actor. Life and career Matthew Del Negro was born in Mount Kisco, New York, as the youngest of three children. He graduated from John Jay High School in Cross River, New York in 1990. He ...
): Staffer, Santos—–McGarry Campaign (Seasons 6–7); Santos Administration counselor to the President (season 7). Moves into Charlie Young's former office on Inauguration Day. * Ned Carlson (
Evan Arnold Evan Arnold is an American actor. He played Richie Flanscopper on ''Growing Pains'', Gavin Doosler on ''Just the Ten of Us'', Ned Carlson on ''The West Wing'', Jeffrey Ambor on ''Close to Home'', Chef Alan on ''Suburgatory'', Dr. Ditmer on ''M ...
): A day-one aide to Congressman Santos (season 6); Staffer, Santos—–McGarry Campaign (seasons 6–7). He is removed from the campaign and reassigned to Santos's Congressional office early in season 7 after Lou considers that he is out of his depth. * Otto (Ramon De Ocampo): Speechwriter, Santos—–McGarry Campaign (season 7); Staffer in the Santos Administration (season 7). Very young but capable man who has a campaign fling with Lou Thornton. It is implied he will have a speechwriting role in the Santos Administration.


Vinick campaign

* Sheila Brooks (
Patricia Richardson Patricia Castle Richardson (born February 23, 1951) is an American actress best known for her portrayal of Jill Taylor on the American Broadcasting Company, ABC sitcom ''Home Improvement (TV series), Home Improvement'', for which she was nominat ...
): Senator Vinick's chief of staff and Vinick–Sullivan campaign manager; She, like Vinick, is portrayed as level-headed and not overtly partisan. Often at odds with the more conservative voices in the party, she leaves the campaign weeks before election day to placate the Republican base (season 6–7). In her final appearance, Brooks is mentioned as possibly being hired as Chief of Staff to the Republican Senate Majority Leader. Having renewed her friendship with Vinick, she makes an argument that convinces the Senator that he should not run for president again—and that he should accept President-elect Santos' offer to become the next Secretary of State. * Jane Braun (
Melinda McGraw Melinda McGraw (born October 25, 1968) is an American actress. She has appeared in movies such as ''The Dark Knight'' (2008), ''Wrongfully Accused'' (1998), and '' Skateland'' (2010), and is also known for her television performances on ''Mad Men ...
): Vinick–Sullivan campaign manager after Brooks' resignation (season 7); A far-to-the-right conservative activist who replaces Sheila to energize hard-core GOP voters. However, she disgusts the rest of the campaign leadership by attempting to make an election night issue of Leo McGarry's death. Her outspoken partisanship puts her at odds with Vinick, Sheila, and Bruno Gianelli. * Bruno Gianelli (
Ron Silver Ronald Arthur Silver (July 2, 1946 – March 15, 2009) was an American actor, director, producer, radio host, and activist. As an actor, he portrayed Henry Kissinger, Alan Dershowitz and Angelo Dundee. He was awarded a Tony in 1988 for Best ...
): ( See above). * Bob Mayer (
Stephen Root Stephen Root (born November 17, 1951) is an American actor. He has starred as Jimmy James on the NBC sitcom ''NewsRadio'' (1995–1999), as Milton Waddams in the film ''Office Space'' (1999), and voiced Bill Dauterive and Buck Strickland on the a ...
): Vinick–Sullivan speechwriter (season 6–7). Frequently mocked for his messy eating habits but extremely smart and effective (and, like Vinick and Sheila Brooks, level-headed in his conservatism), Mayer becomes fast friends with Gianelli. On election night, the two briefly discuss forming a consulting firm when Mayer firmly declares he is never going to become involved in daily governance, but Gianelli politely declines because the campaign life has worn him down and he plans to retire to his home in upstate New York. Along with Sheila, Bob advises Vinick to accept Santos' offer as the next Secretary of State.


Media

* Danny Concannon (
Timothy Busfield Timothy Busfield (born June 12, 1957) is an American actor and director. He played Elliot Weston on the television series '' thirtysomething''; Mark, the brother-in-law of Ray Kinsella (Kevin Costner), in '' Field of Dreams''; and Danny Concann ...
): senior White House
correspondent A correspondent or on-the-scene reporter is usually a journalist or commentator for a magazine, or an agent who contributes reports to a newspaper, or radio or television news, or another type of company, from a remote, often distant, locati ...
for ''
The Washington Post ''The Washington Post'', locally known as ''The'' ''Post'' and, informally, ''WaPo'' or ''WP'', is an American daily newspaper published in Washington, D.C., the national capital. It is the most widely circulated newspaper in the Washington m ...
'' and C.J. Cregg's most enduring love interest; it is revealed in a flash forward in season 7 that, three years after the end of the Bartlet administration (and of the time frame covered by the series), the two have been living together in LA and have had a baby together. (Seasons 1–2, 4–5, 7). * Greg Brock (
Sam Robards Sam Prideaux Robards (born December 16, 1961) is an American actor. He is best known for his film roles in '' American Beauty'' (1999) and '' A.I. Artificial Intelligence'' (2001). For his performance in the Broadway production of '' The Man Who ...
): White House correspondent for ''
The New York Times ''The New York Times'' (''NYT'') is an American daily newspaper based in New York City. ''The New York Times'' covers domestic, national, and international news, and publishes opinion pieces, investigative reports, and reviews. As one of ...
''. (Greg Brock is also the name of a real editor for ''The New York Times'', unrelated to the fictional one of the same name.) One of the White House correspondents who is most regularly referred to (second only to Danny Concannon). He writes a story that reveals the classified information that a military space shuttle exists that could be used to rescue three astronauts on the International Space Station who are running out of oxygen. Brock's source is initially suspected to be C. J. Cregg, whose phone records show a large number of calls to him. He refuses to reveal his source, is accordingly held in contempt of court, and goes to jail. He is presumably released after White House Communications Director Toby Ziegler confesses to the leak, saying thatBrock was the only reporter to whom he leaked the information. Some commentators have compared this storyline to the
Valerie Plame affair The Plame affair (also known as the CIA leak scandal and Plamegate) was a political scandal that revolved around journalist Robert Novak's public identification of Valerie Plame as a covert Central Intelligence Agency officer in 2003. In 2002, ...
. (Seasons 5–7). * Roger Salier (Ivan Allen): Television anchor on News Center 4 (Seasons 1–7). * Mark Gottfried (
Ted McGinley Theodore Martin McGinley (born May 30, 1958) is an American actor. He is known for his roles as Jefferson D'Arcy on the television sitcom '' Married... with Children'', Charley Shanowski on the ABC sitcom '' Hope & Faith'', and as Derek on the ...
): Talk show host of ''Capital Beat'' (Episodes 2.04, 2.13 & 2.14). * Diane Mathers (Kathrin Middleton): Tough talk show host who interviews Zoey Bartlet about her kidnapping and
John Hoynes The television series ''The West Wing'' is a political drama series which was originally broadcast on NBC. During its seven seasons the ensemble cast of stars, recurring stars, and guest stars earned 157 acting nominations (often competing in th ...
about his intentions to run for president again (Episodes 5.07 & 6.07). * Taylor Reid (
Jay Mohr Jon Ferguson "Jay" Mohr (born August 23, 1970) is an American actor, stand-up comedian and radio host. He is known for playing film producer Peter Dragon in the television comedy series '' Action'' in 1999, Professor Rick Payne in the television ...
): Conservative talk show host, baits C. J. Cregg by calling her a "chicken" (season 5). Some reviewers have likened the character to Bill O'Reilly, the combative host of the news commentary show ''
The O'Reilly Factor ''The O'Reilly Factor'' (originally titled ''The O'Reilly Report'' and also known as ''The Factor'') is an American cable television news and talk show. ''The O'Reilly Factor'' first aired in the United States on Fox News Channel on October 7 ...
''.Joel Brown, New York Times Syndicate. "Time for first clips from 'Barbershop'," ''Ventura County Star'' (CA), February 25, 2004, "Life, Arts, and Living" section, page 4: "C.J. takes another turn jousting with obvious Bill O'Reilly clone Taylor Reid (guest star Jay Mohr)." * Will Sawyer (
Michael O'Keefe Michael O'Keefe (born Raymond Peter O'Keefe Jr.; April 24, 1955) is an American actor known for his roles as Danny Noonan in '' Caddyshack''; Ben Meechum in '' The Great Santini,'' for which he received a nomination for the Academy Award for Bes ...
): Appears in the episode "War Crimes" (season 3.05) as a White House correspondent while awaiting a new overseas assignment after escaping from
Myanmar Myanmar, officially the Republic of the Union of Myanmar; and also referred to as Burma (the official English name until 1989), is a country in northwest Southeast Asia. It is the largest country by area in Mainland Southeast Asia and has ...
. * Katarina "Katie" Witt (Kris Murphy): White House Press Corps Reporter (Seasons 1–7). * Mark O'Donnell (
Timothy Davis-Reed Timothy Davis-Reed is an American film, television and theater actor. Education Davis-Reed has a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Syracuse University and studied acting with Charles Nelson Reilly and Arthur Storch. Career As a televisio ...
): White House Press Corps Reporter. Episode 3:08 – says he is from Canada. (season 2–7) * Steve (
Charles Noland Charles Noland is an American actor who has appeared in many TV shows and films, including '' Blow'' and ''Wayne's World''. He was a supporting character on ''ER'' for 2 seasons and on ''The West Wing'' for 7 seasons. Noland has also had a long ...
): White House Press Corps Reporter, from AP. (season 1–7) * Chris (Mindy Seeger): White House Press Corps Reporter. (season 1–7) * Charlayne (Joyce Guy): White House Press Corps Reporter. (season 5–7) * Gordon (
Tom Chick Tom W. Chick (born August 14, 1966) is an American actor and independent journalist. His most prominent TV roles were as Oscar's boyfriend Gil in the U.S. version of ''The Office'', and the hard-hitting reporter Gordon in ''The West Wing''. Ear ...
): White House Press Corps Reporter. (season 5–7)


Family


Josiah Bartlet's family

* Abigail Ann "Abbey" Bartlet,
M.D. A Doctor of Medicine (abbreviated MD, from the Latin ) is a medical degree, the meaning of which varies between different jurisdictions. In the United States, and some other countries, the ''MD'' denotes a professional degree of physician. This ge ...
(
Stockard Channing Stockard Channing (born Susan Antonia Williams Stockard; February 13, 1944) is an American actress. List of awards and nominations received by Stockard Channing, Her accolades include three Emmy Awards, a Tony Award, and a nomination for an Acade ...
):
First Lady of the United States First Lady of the United States (FLOTUS) is a title typically held by the wife of the president of the United States, concurrent with the president's term in office. Although the first lady's role has never been Code of law, codified or offici ...
(Seasons 1–7). * Jonathan Bartlet: Josiah Bartlet's younger brother (mentioned, never seen) * Elizabeth "Liz" Bartlet Westin (
Annabeth Gish Anne Elizabeth "Annabeth" Gish (born March 13, 1971) is an American actress. She played roles in the films '' Shag'', '' Hiding Out'', '' Mystic Pizza'', '' SLC Punk!'', '' The Last Supper'' and ''Double Jeopardy''. On television, she played Spe ...
): The President's eldest daughter, married with two children. (Seasons 5–7). President Bartlet thinks she is the real political mind in her marriage (not her husband) and that she should run for office instead of him. * Eleanor Emily "Ellie" Bartlet Faison,
M.D. A Doctor of Medicine (abbreviated MD, from the Latin ) is a medical degree, the meaning of which varies between different jurisdictions. In the United States, and some other countries, the ''MD'' denotes a professional degree of physician. This ge ...
(
Nina Siemaszko Antonina Jadwiga Siemaszko (; born July 14, 1970) is an American actress, best known for her film roles in '' Little Noises'' (1991), '' The Saint of Fort Washington'' (1993), and for her role as Eleanor Bartlet in '' The West Wing'' (2001–2006 ...
): The President's middle daughter. (Seasons 2, 5, 7). She loves her father, and he loves her, but they are very different in personality, and President Bartlet has said that Ellie is "her mother's daughter". * Zoey Patricia Bartlet (
Elisabeth Moss Elisabeth Singleton Moss (born July 24, 1982) is an American actor and director. The recipient of several accolades, including two Golden Globe Awards, two Primetime Emmy Awards, and a nomination for a Tony Award, she was named the "Queen of P ...
): The President's youngest daughter (Seasons 1–2, 4–7). * Dr. Bartlet (
Lawrence O'Donnell Lawrence Francis O'Donnell Jr. (born November 7, 1951) is an American television anchor, actor, author, screenwriter, liberal political commentator, and host of '' The Last Word with Lawrence O'Donnell'', an MSNBC opinion and news program that ...
): The President's father. Though deceased, he appears during flashbacks in the episode "
Two Cathedrals "Two Cathedrals" is the 44th episode and second season finale of ''The West Wing''. It was first broadcast on May 16, 2001, on NBC. President Bartlet is beset by memories of Mrs. Landingham as her funeral approaches. Meanwhile, the staff dea ...
" (season 2). In flashback form, he is an overbearing man described by Mrs Landingham as a "prick who was jealous of his more successful brothers" and took out his limitations on his brilliant leader of a son. * Doug Westin (
Steven Eckholdt Steven Eckholdt (born September 6, 1961) is an American actor. He has appeared in many television series and film roles. He is best known as Shaun in '' The Runnin' Kind'', Patrick Flannigan in ''L.A. Law'', Mark Robinson in ''Friends, ''and Do ...
): Liz's husband. Neither the President nor his senior staff think much of him: the President because he does not think Doug is really worthy of marrying Elizabeth, the staff because they view him as an empty suit. Has an adulterous affair with the family's nanny exposed and unsuccessfully runs for the House of Representatives representing New Hampshire in 2006 (Seasons 5–7). * Vic Faison ( Ben Weber): Ellie's fiancé, later husband. A scientist studying fruit flies, he earned President Barlet's respect when he admitted that he was not marrying Ellie due to her being pregnant but knew Ellie was ''the'' one on their third date. Vic has difficulty coping with the fact that his wedding has become a state occasion, but comes to terms with it (Season 7). * Annie Westin: The President's granddaughter and Liz's daughter, aged 12 in season 1. (Season 5, episode 1). * Gus Westin (Michael Krepack): The President's grandson and Liz's son (Season 5).


Leo McGarry's family

* Mallory O'Brien ( Allison Smith):
Leo McGarry Leo Thomas McGarry is a fictional character of the NBC political drama series ''The West Wing'', portrayed by American actor John Spencer. McGarry was the former Secretary of Labor, former White House Chief of Staff, Senior Counselor to Dem ...
's daughter (Seasons 1–2, 4–7). * Jenny McGarry (
Sara Botsford Sara Botsford (born August 4, 1951) is a Canadian television and film actress. She starred in the CTV drama series ''E.N.G.'' (1989–1994) for which received Canadian Screen Award for Best Actress in a Continuing Leading Dramatic Role. Career S ...
): Leo McGarry's wife. Divorces him due to his work commitments (season 1). * Josephine McGarry (Deborah Hedwall): Leo McGarry's sister, who works as an educator (season 2). Avowedly against school prayer, and is forced to withdraw from consideration for a position with the
Department of Education An education ministry is a national or subnational government agency politically responsible for education. Various other names are commonly used to identify such agencies, such as Ministry of Education, Department of Education, and Ministry of Pub ...
when Leo finds out she ordered the arrest of students who were praying and arranging for the arrest to be publicized. * Elizabeth McGarry: Leo McGarry's sister, mentioned in the episode "In Excelsis Deo" (season 1).


C. J. Cregg's family

* Hogan Cregg (
Evan Rachel Wood Evan Rachel Wood (born September 7, 1987) is an American actress. She is the recipient of a Critics' Choice Television Award as well as nominations for three Primetime Emmy Awards and three Golden Globe Awards. She began acting in the 1990s, a ...
): C.J.'s niece (season 3). * Molly Lapham Cregg (
Verna Bloom Verna Frances Bloom (August 7, 1938 – January 9, 2019) was an American actress. Early life Verna Frances Bloom, born on August 7, 1938, in Lynn, Massachusetts, grew up in a Russian Jewish family where her father, Milton, operated a grocery s ...
): C.J.'s stepmother and her former high school English teacher (season 4). * Talmidge Cregg (
Donald Moffat Donald Moffat (December 26, 1930 – December 20, 2018) was a British-American actor with a decades-long career in film and stage in the United States. Moffat began his acting career on- and off- Broadway, which included appearances in ''The ...
): C.J.'s father, a retired math teacher with
Alzheimer's disease Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disease and the cause of 60–70% of cases of dementia. The most common early symptom is difficulty in remembering recent events. As the disease advances, symptoms can include problems wit ...
(season 4). * Grammy Cregg: Mentioned as the Midwestern source of C.J.'s "Hay is for Horses" witticism. * Two older brothers: Mentioned in "The Black Vera Wang". * Danny Concannon (
Timothy Busfield Timothy Busfield (born June 12, 1957) is an American actor and director. He played Elliot Weston on the television series '' thirtysomething''; Mark, the brother-in-law of Ray Kinsella (Kevin Costner), in '' Field of Dreams''; and Danny Concann ...
): senior White House correspondent for ''The Washington Post'' and love interest for C.J. Cregg; the two have a child together and have been living together for three years (marriage not confirmed in dialogue) as revealed in the last episode (Seasons 1–2, 4–5, 7).


Josh Lyman's family

*Joanie Lyman: Josh's older sister who died in a fire when she was babysitting him. *Noah Lyman: Josh's father, a successful lawyer and longtime Democratic Party supporter, who was good friends with Leo McGarry. He died on the night of the Illinois primary (during Bartlet's first presidential campaign). *Mrs. Lyman: Josh's mother and only living relative. She lives in Florida and Josh usually visits her during holidays.


Toby Ziegler's family

* Andrea Wyatt (
Kathleen York Kathleen "Bird" York is an American actress, screenwriter, and Oscar-nominated singer-songwriter recording artist. She was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Song for "In the Deep" from the 2004 film '' Crash.'' Life and career E ...
): Ex-wife of Toby Ziegler, Congresswoman from Maryland. * Molly Wyatt: Toby and Andrea's daughter, named after Molly O'Conner, the secret service agent shot and killed the night of Zoey Bartlet's kidnapping, the night of her and Huck's birth (Seasons 4, 7). * Huckleberry "Huck" Wyatt: Toby and Andrea's son, named after Andrea's grandfather (Seasons 4, 7). * Jules "Julie" Ziegler (
Jerry Adler Jerry Adler (born February 4, 1929) is an American theatre director, producer, and film and television actor. He is perhaps best known for his films '' Manhattan Murder Mystery'', '' The Public Eye'', '' In Her Shoes'', and ''Prime'', and for hi ...
): Toby's father, former member of
Murder Incorporated Murder, Inc. (Murder, Incorporated) was an organized crime group active from 1929 to 1941 that acted as the enforcement arm of the National Crime Syndicatea closely connected criminal organization that included American Mafia, Italian-American M ...
, retired ladies' raincoat maker (season 4). * David Ziegler:(mentioned, never seen) Toby's brother,
NASA The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA ) is an independent agencies of the United States government, independent agency of the federal government of the United States, US federal government responsible for the United States ...
astronaut, who dies by suicide in season 6 following a cancer diagnosis. * Sisters: (mentioned, never seen), Took Toby to protests when he was young.


Donna Moss's family

* Aunt Barbara: Aunt from Wisconsin whom Donna leads on private tour. (season 5) * Uncle Ted: Uncle from Wisconsin whom Donna leads on private tour. (season 5) * Cousins in Oklahoma: Mentioned in "
Disaster Relief Emergency management (also Disaster management) is a science and a system charged with creating the framework within which communities reduce vulnerability to hazards and cope with disasters. Emergency management, despite its name, does not actu ...
" (season 5) * Mother: Comes to visit when Donna is hospitalized in Germany after the Gaza attack.


Will Bailey's family

* Elsie Snuffin (
Danica McKellar Danica McKellar (born January 3, 1975) is an American actress, mathematics writer, and education advocate. She is best known for playing Winnie Cooper in the television series ''The Wonder Years.'' McKellar has appeared in various television f ...
): Will Bailey's stepsister. * Thomas Bailey: Will's father, a former
Supreme Allied Commander Europe The Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SACEUR) is the commander of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization's (NATO) Allied Command Operations (ACO) and head of ACO's headquarters, Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe (SHAPE). The commander is ...
.


Charlie Young's family

* Deanna Young: Charlie's younger sister. * Mrs Young: Charlie's mother, a Washington, D.C. policewoman who was shot and killed in the line of duty prior to the start of the series by a gunman who was never arrested. (Mentioned, seen only in a photo.) * Grandparents: Mentioned in " The State Dinner" as living in Georgia and not getting around too well


Matt Santos's family

* Helen Santos (
Teri Polo Theresa Elizabeth Polo (born June 1, 1969) is an American actress. She starred as Pamela Martha Focker (née Byrnes) in the ''Meet the Parents'' trilogy, Helen Santos in ''The West Wing'', and played the role of police officer Stef Adams Foster ...
): Matt Santos's wife (season 6–7) * Peter Santos (Joshua Cabrera): Matt Santos's son (season 6–7) * Miranda Santos (
Ashlyn Sanchez Ashlyn Kohl Sanchez (born July 27, 1996) is a former American child actress. Notable roles include ''Crash (2004 film), Crash'' and ''The Happening (2008 film), The Happening''. Filmography Film Television Critical reception Sanchez earned s ...
): Matt Santos's daughter (season 6–7) * Jorge Santos (
David Barrera David Joel Barrera (born December 28, 1968) is an American actor. He is best known for his role as Gunnery Sgt. Ray 'Casey Kasem' Griego in ''Generation Kill''. He has appeared in television series including ''Grimm'', ''Heroes'', '' CSI: Miami' ...
): Matt's Santos's brother (season 7), a failure in life who nearly ruins his brother's presidential bid when the Vinick campaign thinks they have evidence Matt Santos has an illegitimate child; in fact, Matt discovered that Jorge refused to support his ex-girlfriend, and therefore set up secret payments to help her on his own.


Other characters

* Laurie (
Lisa Edelstein Lisa Edelstein ( ; born May 21, 1966) is an American actress and artist. She is known for playing Dr. Lisa Cuddy on the Fox medical drama series ''House'' (2004–2011). Between 2014 and 2018, Edelstein starred as Abby McCarthy in the Bravo s ...
): Sam Seaborn's friend. Law student working as a
call girl A call girl or female escort is a prostitute who (unlike a street prostitution, street walker) does not display her profession to the general public, nor does she usually work in an institution like a brothel, although she may be employed by ...
(season 1 and mentioned several times in 2). * Al Kiefer (
John de Lancie John Sherwood de Lancie, Jr. (born March 20, 1948) is an American actor, best known for his role as Q in various ''Star Trek'' series, beginning with '' Star Trek: The Next Generation'' in 1987 and leading up to the third season of '' Star Tre ...
): Democratic pollster who had a short relationship with Joey Lucas. The senior staff cannot stand him, and when Joey's abilities became apparent, she takes over his previous role as the Bartlet administration's top pollster (season 1). * Larry Claypool (
John Diehl John Henry Diehl (born May 1, 1950) is an American character actor. Noted for his work in avant-garde theater, Diehl has performed in more than 140 films and television shows, including '' Land of Plenty'', '' Stripes'', ''City Limits'', '' Nix ...
): Freedom Watch lawyer (Seasons 1, 4) who spends his time filing lawsuits against President Bartlet and his staff in hopes of bringing down the administration * Bernard Thatch (
Paxton Whitehead Francis Edward Paxton Whitehead (17 October 1937 – 16 June 2023) was an English actor and theatre director. He was nominated for a Tony Award and a Drama Desk Award for his performance as Pellinore in the 1980 revival of '' Camelot''. Whiteh ...
): Head of the White House Visitor's Office (Ep 2.10, Ep 6.07). * Ann Stark (
Felicity Huffman Felicity Kendall Huffman (born December 9, 1962) is an American actress. She is known for her role as Lynette Scavo in the ABC comedy-drama ''Desperate Housewives'' and her role as Sabrina "Bree" Osbourne, a transgender woman, in the film ''Trans ...
): Toby Ziegler's former friend, until she betrays him when he tries to broker a compromise on patients' rights. Chief of Staff to the Senate Majority Leader (Ep 2.11) * Roberto Mendoza (
Edward James Olmos Edward James Olmos (born February 24, 1947) is an American actor. He is best known for his roles as Detective List of Blade Runner (franchise) characters#Gaff, Gaff in ''Blade Runner'' (1982) and its sequel ''Blade Runner 2049'' (2017), Lieuten ...
): Short-list nominee and later confirmed Associate Justice of the Supreme Court. (Ep 1.9, Ep 1.15) * Lisa Sherborne (
Traylor Howard Traylor Elizabeth Howard (born June 14, 1966) is an American actress. From 2005 to 2009, Howard played Natalie Teeger in the USA Network television series ''Monk''. She has also starred on the sitcoms '' Boston Common'' (1996–1997) and '' Two ...
): Sam Seaborn's former fiancée who now works for ''Vanity Fair''. Sam broke off their engagement because he wanted to leave the New York scene and work at the White House (Ep 3.11). * Dr. Stanley Keyworth (
Adam Arkin Adam Arkin (born August 19, 1956) is an American actor and director. He is best known for playing the role of Aaron Shutt on ''Chicago Hope''. He has been nominated for numerous awards, including a Tony Award, Tony (Best Actor, 1991, ''I Hate Ha ...
): A psychiatrist from San Francisco who specializes in trauma cases. He is asked by Leo McGarry to see Josh after Josh yells at the President. Staff Therapist for the American Trauma Victims Association (ATVA), has several sessions as the President's therapist as well. (Seasons 2–4) * Jordon Elaine Kendall (
Joanna Gleason Joanna Gleason (née Hall; born June 2, 1950) is a Canadian-American actress and singer, known for her performances in theatrical musicals and plays, and on film and television. In theatre, Gleason originated the role of the Baker's Wife in Ste ...
): Leo McGarry's lawyer during the Bartlet MS hearings and love interest for several months (season 3–4) * Tabatha Fortis (
Laura Dern Laura Elizabeth Dern (born February 10, 1967) is an American actress. She is the recipient of numerous accolades, including an Academy Award, a Primetime Emmy Award, a BAFTA Award, a Screen Actors Guild Award, and five Golden Globe Awards. Born ...
):
United States Poet Laureate The poet laureate consultant in poetry to the Library of Congress, commonly referred to as the United States poet laureate, serves as the official poet of the United States. During their term, the poet laureate seeks to raise the national consc ...
(season 3.16) * Alana Waterman (
Lee Garlington Ann Leslie "Lee" Garlington (born July 20, 1953) is an American actress. Early life Garlington was born in Teaneck, New Jersey on July 20, 1953. She spent her teenage years in Wilmington, Delaware. Career She has guest-starred in a number of not ...
): Toby Ziegler's attorney, called upon when Toby confesses to the White House leak. (season 7, Garlington also appeared in the pilot episode as a militant anti-abortion activist.) * Jean Paul Pierre Claude Charpentier, Vicomte de Condé de Bourbon (
Trent Ford Trent Ford is an American-born English actor and model. Early life and education Ford was born in Akron, Ohio. His father was a test pilot for the United States Navy, and his mother was a British Airways head stewardess from Birmingham, West ...
): Zoey Bartlet's French boyfriend. (season 4) * Colin Ayres (
Jason Isaacs Jason Isaacs (born 6 June 1963) is an English actor. He is best known for his portrayal of D.J. in ''Event Horizon'' (1997), Ronald Quincy in ''Armageddon'' (1998), Colonel William Tavington in '' The Patriot'' (2000), Michael D. Steele in '' ...
): Photographer who has a fling with Donna Moss in the episode "Gaza". (season 5–6) * Lt. Colonel Gantry: pilot of
Air Force One Air Force One is the official air traffic control-designated Aviation call signs, call sign for a United States Air Force aircraft carrying the president of the United States. The term is commonly used to denote U.S. Air Force aircraft modifie ...
, heard several times on personal announcements on the plane. * Colonel Jesse Weisskopf ( James Morrison): pilot of
Air Force One Air Force One is the official air traffic control-designated Aviation call signs, call sign for a United States Air Force aircraft carrying the president of the United States. The term is commonly used to denote U.S. Air Force aircraft modifie ...
, seen in the episode "Angel Maintenance" (season 4) informing the President on the status of the plane. * Dr. Millicent Griffith (
Mary Kay Place Mary Kay Place (born September 23, 1947) is an American actress. She is best known for portraying Loretta Haggers on the television series '' Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman'', a role that won her the 1977 Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Suppor ...
): Close family friend of the Bartlets, Ellie's godmother, occasional medical adviser to the President, and President Bartlet's
Surgeon General Surgeon general (: surgeons general) is a title used in several Commonwealth countries and most NATO nations to refer either to a senior military medical officer or to a senior uniformed physician commissioned by the government and entrusted with p ...
(Ep. 2.15, Ep. 6.08, Ep. 6.09; mentioned in Ep. 2.18) * Reverend Don Butler ( Don S. Davis): A conservative
televangelist Televangelism (from ''televangelist'', a blend of ''television'' and ''evangelist'') and occasionally termed radio evangelism or teleministry, denotes the utilization of media platforms, notably radio and television, for the marketing of relig ...
from Virginia, who is a candidate for the Republican Party's nomination for President of the United States in the 2006 election, but is defeated by Arnold Vinick and politely declines Vinick's offer of the Vice President spot because he cannot support Vinick's pro-choice positions. * Bobby Zane (
Noah Emmerich Noah Nicholas Emmerich (born February 27, 1965) is an American actor and director best known for his roles in films such as '' Beautiful Girls'' (1996), ''The Truman Show'' (1998), ''Frequency'' (2000), ''Miracle'' (2004), '' Little Children'' (2 ...
): Defense lawyer for a convicted murderer and high school bully of Sam Seaborn. He contacts Sam to persuade the White House to commute his client's death sentence (Ep. 1.14). * Marco (
Matthew Modine Matthew Avery Modine (born March 22, 1959) is an American actor and filmmaker. He shared the Venice Film Festival‘s Volpi Cup for Best Actor as part of the ensemble cast of Robert Altman film ''Streamers'' (1983). He went on to play lead rol ...
): A horologist and high school classmate of C. J. Cregg who helps her deal with her father's steady mental decline due to Alzheimer's disease. Appears in the episode "The Long Goodbye" (Ep. 4.13). * Morris Tolliver (
Ruben Santiago-Hudson Ruben Santiago-Hudson (born Ruben Santiago Jr., November 24, 1956) is an American actor, playwright, and director who has won national awards for his work in all three categories. He is best known for his role of Captain Roy Montgomery from 2009 ...
): He was a physician and Navy officer (Captain), who served as a temporary replacement at the position of Physician to the President of the United States. Despite his relatively low rank for the position, Bartlet liked him and Leo McGarry asked him to stay on full-time. Before he could assume the position, however, a plane he was on during a diplomatic mission was shot down over the Middle East, which prompted the President to "overreact" in the next episode "A Proportional Response". Dr. Tolliver was married to Angela and their daughter's name was Cory. The child was named for her great-grandmother, who had been named after her great-aunt, who got it from the first free woman she ever met. Appears in the episode "Post Hoc, Ergo Propter Hoc" (Ep. 1.2). * Steve Atwood (
Željko Ivanek Željko Ivanek (; ; born August 15, 1957) is a Slovenian-American actor of Croat descent. Ivanek's film credits include '' Courage Under Fire'' (1996), '' Donnie Brasco'' (1997), '' Hannibal'', '' Black Hawk Down'' (both 2001), '' Unfaithful'' ( ...
): Republican Chief of Staff to Glen Allen Walken when he was Speaker of the House. He follows Walken to the White House when the Speaker resigns from his post to step in for Bartlet as president. Finds himself at odds with Josh Lyman, who accuses Atwood of conspiring with Walken and the Republican Party for pushing their agenda during the presidency. Atwood denies it, citing that he and the party are in awe of Bartlet for his actions under the 25th Amendment (Ep. 5.1, Ep. 5.2).


Pets

* Bess: Glen Allen Walken's
pug The Pug is a breed of dog with the physically distinctive features of a wrinkly, short-muzzled face, and curled tail. An ancient breed, with roots dating back to 400 B.C., they have a fine, glossy coat that comes in a variety of colors, most ...
. * Gail: C. J. Cregg's pet goldfish. A gift from Danny Concannon. In "The Short List" (Ep. 1.9), Josh Lyman tells Danny that C.J. likes "goldfish". Although Josh is referring to the snack crackers of the same name, Danny mistakenly believes he is referring to the aquatic creature;Gail the Goldfish
, describing Gail's introduction on the show, with screen shots that include some of the bowl ornaments from different episodes. Retrieved January 2, 2009.
after giving C.J. the fish, Danny mentions that the pet-store owner had named it "Gail". On the DVD commentary track for Ep. 1.10, "In Excelsis Deo",
Aaron Sorkin Aaron Benjamin Sorkin (born June 9, 1961) is an American screenwriter, playwright and film director. Born in New York City, he developed a passion for writing at an early age. As a writer for stage, television, and film, Sorkin is recognized f ...
,
Thomas Schlamme Thomas David Schlamme (; born ) is an American television director, known particularly for his collaborations with Aaron Sorkin. He is known for his work as executive producer on '' The West Wing'' and '' Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip,'' as well ...
, and
Alex Graves Alexander John Graves is an American film director, television director, television producer and screenwriter. Early life Alex Graves was born in Kansas City, Missouri. His father, William Graves, was a reporter for ''The Kansas City Star'' and ...
mention that the
prop A prop, formally known as a (theatrical) property, is an object actors use on stage or screen during a performance or screen production. In practical terms, a prop is considered to be anything movable or portable on a stage or a set, distinct ...
masters created a miniature Christmas ornament to place on the floor of Gail's fish bowl and that from then on, the prop masters often crafted tiny decorations related to the themes in a given episode. For example, when hostilities were escalating in India and Pakistan, the bowl contained a tiny bomb shelter.Aaron Sorkin, Thomas Schlamme, and Alex Graves. DVD Commentary, ''The West Wing'': season 1, episode 10, "In Excelsis Deo." * Henry: Amy Gardner's
basset hound The Basset Hound is a short-legged breed of scent hound. The Basset Hound was developed in Great Britain from several now-extinct strains of France, French basset breeds. It was bred primarily for hunting rabbit and hare on foot, moving slowly en ...
.


See also

* ''
The West Wing ''The West Wing'' is an American political drama television series created by Aaron Sorkin that was originally broadcast on NBC from September 22, 1999, to May 14, 2006. The series is set primarily in the West Wing of the White House, where t ...
'' * List of ''The West Wing'' episodes


References

{{DEFAULTSORT:West Wing characters Lists of American television series characters Lists of drama television characters