Common Character Types

By: Laura Onofrio

Rondina, Cassata and Skill developed 12 characters types: 5 primary personalities and 7 secondary types. These characters types are still present in today's daytime dramas although the economic and social roles in each category have expanded since the radio era and the characters in television soaps are far more complex and less definable as in earlier years (Matelski: 1988:25).

Primary Types:

1. The Chic Suburbanite: These characters well educated, achievement-oriented, upper-middle-class men and women. Usually single or divorced, 20-34 years old, they work in a professional job, and are primarily concerned with their overall image and social status. Rarely interested in happy relationships with family or friends; they usually interact with others for the sheer need to impress them or for the ultimate enhancement of their social standing.
2. The Subtle Single: These characters are young; middle-class and well educated and are mainly women. They are professionals who are career-oriented. These characters are mostly interested in their bonds with family and friends.
3. The Traditional Family Person: This character has been an integral part of the soap opera genre since 1930 and is still the backbone for most of today's daytime drama. They are married and can be professionals or blue-collar workers or homemakers. They range in age from 20-64 and their common bond lies in their major concern that the family unit functions smoothly.
4. The Successful Professional: These characters are the middle-aged, upper or middle-class professionals. They are usually single or divorced because of their single-minded devotion to their career as work is their life.
5. The Elegant Socialite: These characters are usually middle-aged, married, widowed, or divorced, upper-class women. They often flaunt their wealthy, upper-crust origins, and are constantly using their money to impress upon others that they are tasteful, civic-minded and extremely cultural.

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