Charles “Sonny” Liston is the central character of this series. He is a complex individual with many different facets to his personality. Brutal in the ring, yet kind and generous to those in need, an actor

Geraldine “Gerry” Liston (nee Chamber) is Sonny’s wife and most supportive advocate. As partners in life, the pair face immense challenges that they must tackle together.

Frank “Blinky” Palermo is a mobster who becomes Sonny’s manager. He is a dominating force in Sonny’s life, guiding the boxing legend down a path that might lead to his destruction.

Paul John “Frankie” Carbo is a high-ranking member of the mob. He is the man who holds Sonny’s destiny in his hands. As Sonny’s star rises, Carbo finds ways to squeeze every last cent out of the boxing legend.

Father Alois Stevens first met Sonny while he was in prison. Stevens and his fellow prison chaplain Father Schlattmann discovered Sonny’s talent for boxing and set him on the path that would lead him to become one of boxing’s unsung heroes.

Father Edward Schlattmann became Sonny’s mentor and friend while Sonny was incarcerated for armed robbery. Schlattmann saw something in Sonny that made him want to help the young man, redirecting his energy into developing his talents in the boxing ring.