Cast and Crew of Shining Girls

Shining Girls

In the gripping thriller "Shining Girls," audiences are introduced to Kirby Mazrachi, portrayed by the talented Elisabeth Moss. Years after enduring a harrowing and brutal attack that has left her grappling with a fractured reality, Kirby finds herself in a world where the past bleeds into the present. This disorienting experience forces her to navigate through memories that constantly shift, compelling her to seek answers to her turbulent life. As dark secrets begin to unravel, Kirby discovers a chilling connection between her past trauma and a recent murder, igniting a desperate quest for truth and justice.

Teaming up with seasoned journalist Dan Velazquez, played by the charismatic Wagner Moura, Kirby embarks on an intense investigation that delves deep into the complexities of her own experiences. As they work together to piece together the puzzle of the murder, the duo confronts not only the external threats posed by an unknown assailant but also the internal demons that have haunted Kirby since her attack. Velazquez, driven by his passion for uncovering hidden stories, provides a much-needed anchor for Kirby, as his reporting skills blend with her firsthand knowledge of the terrifying reality she faces.

"Shining Girls" masterfully intertwines elements of mystery and psychological thriller, while exploring themes of trauma, resilience, and the pursuit of closure. As Kirby and Dan delve deeper into the investigation, they uncover not just the truth of the murders but also the pervasive impact of violence on a person's life. Through stunning performances and a haunting narrative, this series invites viewers to ponder the nature of reality and the lengths one must go to reclaim their life from the shadows of the past.

Main Cast of Shining Girls

Elisabeth Moss as Kirby Mazrachi

Elisabeth Moss

Kirby Mazrachi
Elisabeth Moss delivers a powerhouse performance as Kirby Mazrachi in the television series "Shining Girls," a complex and nuanced portrayal that anchors the show's intricate narrative. Moss captures Kirby's resilience and determination with a raw intensity, beautifully conveying the character's internal struggle as she grapples with the aftermath of a brutal assault that has left her unstuck in time. Her ability to navigate Kirby's kaleidoscopic reality, where the present and past blur in disorienting fashion, is nothing short of remarkable. Moss's performance is a study in contradictions—vulnerable yet fierce, unmoored yet laser-focused—as she seeks to unravel the mystery behind her attacker and the shifting realities that threaten to unravel her sense of self. Her portrayal is a testament to her range as an actor, as she imbues Kirby with a palpable sense of humanity, drawing viewers into her quest for truth and justice with empathy and urgency. Moss's work in "Shining Girls" is a high-wire act of emotional depth and nuance, cementing her reputation as one of the most compelling actors of her generation.
Wagner Moura as Dan Velazquez

Wagner Moura

Dan Velazquez
Wagner Moura delivers a compelling performance as Dan Velazquez in the Apple TV+ series "Shining Girls," a role that allows him to showcase his versatility and depth as an actor. As a journalist who becomes entangled in the mysterious and time-warping circumstances surrounding a series of murders, Moura's portrayal of Dan is both grounded and complex. He brings a sense of gravitas and a keen investigative spirit to the character, effectively capturing the audience's curiosity and empathy. Moura's performance is marked by a nuanced balance of determination and vulnerability, as Dan grapples with the surreal elements of the case while also confronting his own personal demons and the toll that his relentless pursuit of truth takes on his relationships and well-being. His chemistry with co-star Elisabeth Moss is palpable, providing a strong emotional anchor to the series' mind-bending narrative. Wagner Moura's portrayal of Dan Velazquez stands as a testament to his ability to navigate intricate storylines and deliver a performance that is both authentic and captivating.
Phillipa Soo as Dr. Jin-Sook 'Jinny' Gwansun

Phillipa Soo

Dr. Jin-Sook 'Jinny' Gwansun
Phillipa Soo delivers a compelling performance as Dr. Jin-Sook 'Jinny' Gwansun in the Apple TV+ series "Shining Girls." Soo brings a nuanced portrayal to the complex role of Jinny, a brilliant and resilient survivor whose life is upended by a traumatic attack. Her character, grappling with the aftermath of violence, is portrayed with a delicate balance of strength and vulnerability. Soo's performance is marked by her ability to convey the depth of Jinny's emotional journey, from her initial struggles with PTSD to her determination to reclaim her life and sense of self. As Jinny navigates the mysterious shifts in reality caused by the series' central antagonist, Soo's subtle expressions and dynamic presence captivate the audience, pulling them into the heart of a character who is both haunted by her past and driven by an unyielding will to persevere. Her portrayal adds a layer of humanity to the science fiction elements of the show, grounding the series in a powerful narrative of survival and hope.
Chris Chalk as Marcus

Chris Chalk

Marcus
Chris Chalk delivers a compelling performance as Marcus in the television series "Shining Girls," bringing depth and complexity to a character caught in a web of time-bending intrigue. His portrayal of Marcus is nuanced, showcasing the character's internal struggle between his journalist's drive for truth and the surreal, often terrifying experiences that challenge his grip on reality. Chalk's Marcus is a beacon of empathy and determination, skillfully navigating the emotional landscape of a world where the past, present, and future are not fixed. His performance is a standout, as he anchors the viewer with a grounded presence amidst the show's mind-bending narrative, ensuring that Marcus's journey remains poignant and authentic. Chris Chalk's ability to convey a spectrum of emotions, from quiet resolve to raw vulnerability, makes his character's arc a powerful and integral part of the "Shining Girls" story.
Amy Brenneman as Rachel

Amy Brenneman

Rachel
Amy Brenneman delivers a captivating performance as Rachel in the television series "Shining Girls." As Rachel, Brenneman embodies a character whose life is upended by the mysterious manipulation of reality, showcasing her versatility as an actress. Her portrayal is nuanced and emotionally resonant, capturing the character's confusion and terror as she grapples with the inexplicable changes in her world. Brenneman brings depth to Rachel's struggle to maintain her sanity and fight against the forces that seek to erase her existence. Her performance is a standout, anchored by her ability to convey the strength and vulnerability of a woman caught in a disorienting web of time-bending phenomena. With her expressive eyes and measured delivery, Brenneman's portrayal of Rachel is both haunting and inspiring, as she navigates the surreal landscape of "Shining Girls," leaving a lasting impression on the audience.
Jamie Bell as Harper

Jamie Bell

Harper
In the captivating TV series "Shining Girls," Jamie Bell delivers a haunting and multifaceted performance as Harper, a mysterious and enigmatic character whose true intentions are as shifting and elusive as his presence. Bell's portrayal exudes an unsettling charm juxtaposed with a palpable sense of danger, as he adeptly navigates the complexities of Harper's chameleonic nature. His ability to oscillate between warmth and menace with a mere change in posture or glance renders Harper both compelling and terrifying. Bell's performance is a masterclass in subtlety; he crafts a character that is as intriguing as he is disturbing, ensuring that viewers are kept on edge, desperate to unravel the enigma that is Harper. His interactions with the other characters, particularly Elisabeth Moss's Kirby, are fraught with tension and an undercurrent of violence, showcasing Bell's range and depth as an actor. As the puzzle of Harper's identity and motives unfolds, Bell's nuanced acting ensures that the character lingers in the mind long after the screen has gone dark.

Crew of Shining Girls

Full backstage crew list →