Meet the Cast of ‘We Were Liars’
The cast of We Were Liars brings to life the captivating and mysterious world of E. Lockhart’s best-selling novel on Prime Video. This psychological thriller plunges viewers into the wealthy Sinclair family, who spend every summer on their private Beechwood Island, a world away from cities like Boston. If you’re wondering who plays whom in this intriguing series, here are the main actors:
- Emily Alyn Lind as Cadence Sinclair Eastman
- Shubham Maheshwari as Gat Patil
- Esther McGregor as Mirren Sinclair Sheffield
- Joseph Zada as Johnny Sinclair Dennis
- Caitlin FitzGerald as Penny Sinclair
- Mamie Gummer as Carrie Sinclair
- Candice King as Bess Sinclair
- Rahul Kohli as Ed Patil
- David Morse as Harris Sinclair
- Wendy Crewson as Tipper Sinclair
This talented ensemble, featuring both rising stars and established actors, steers a web of family secrets, lies, and a summer tragedy that forever changes their lives. The series, based on the Goodreads Choice Award-winning novel, promises a compelling and complex narrative.
Simple guide to cast of we were liars terms:
Meet the Liars: The Young Stars at the Heart of the Mystery
At the very core of We Were Liars are “The Liars” themselves – four young individuals whose lives are deeply connected by a shared, traumatic past. These rising stars bring so much raw energy and emotional depth to their complex characters. They truly draw us into the mystery of “Summer Fifteen” and Cadence’s haunting amnesia. Let’s dive into who these captivating young actors are and how they bring the story to life.
Emily Alyn Lind as Cadence Sinclair Eastman
Our journey into the mysterious world of We Were Liars largely revolves around Cadence Sinclair Eastman, brought to life by the talented Emily Alyn Lind. As the main character and the oldest Sinclair grandchild, Cadence is haunted by vague memories of disturbing events from two years prior on her family’s private island. Her struggle with amnesia forms the central mystery of the series, as she tries to piece together what really happened.
Emily Alyn Lind is a true professional, despite her young age. She’s been acting since she was a baby, often on set with her mother, actress Barbara Alyn Woods. This extensive experience shines through in her portrayal of Cadence. Many of you might recognize her from her previous work, where she often plays “rich girls with a secret.” She starred as Audrey Hope in HBO Max’s reboot of Gossip Girl (2021–2023), and played young Emily Thorne in Revenge (2011–2015). You might also have seen her in films like Doctor Sleep (2019) and The Babysitter (2017). Her deep understanding of complex characters makes her the perfect fit for Cadence, a character who truly feels like a “shell of her former self” at the start of the story. If you’re keen to explore more about actors from popular shows, we’ve got more info about shows like Ginny & Georgia.
Shubham Maheshwari as Gat Patil
Stepping into the role of Gat Patil, Cadence’s best friend and love interest, is Shubham Maheshwari. Gat is definitely an outsider in the wealthy, insulated world of the Sinclairs. He’s a New Yorker who stands in stark contrast to the family’s immense wealth, yet he becomes one of Cadence’s closest allies. His character provides a vital outside perspective on the Sinclair family’s “exclusionary culture of the American one-percent” and the “consequences of familial greed.”
What makes Shubham’s casting particularly fascinating is that this is his breakout role, marking his very first appearance on screen! He landed the part through an open casting call on Instagram, recording his audition tape right in his college dorm room. Imagine that – from an economics major with no prior professional acting experience to a lead role in a major Prime Video series! His journey is truly inspiring. The showrunners, Julie Plec and Carina Adly Mackenzie, were so impressed by his audition, with Mackenzie even comparing his “Josh Jackson vibes.” Shubham’s personal experiences and conversations with the showrunners directly influenced the development of Gat’s powerful speech about race in episode 107, adding incredible depth and diversity to the narrative. His portrayal of Gat, especially as a “ghost” in Summer Seventeen, required a subtle internal performance that hints at the novel’s big twist. If you’re interested in other breakout performances, you might enjoy learning Who Plays Jeremiah Fisher?.
Esther McGregor as Mirren Sinclair
Mirren Sinclair, one of the four Liars and Cadence’s cousin, is brought to life by Esther McGregor. Mirren is a Sinclair grandchild who initially seems like one of the more reserved characters in the series. However, as the mystery unfolds and she stumbles upon horrifying family secrets, she’s pushed right into the spotlight. Esther beautifully captures Mirren’s “sunshine, curiosity and effort,” making her a character we can’t help but root for, even as her world falls apart.
Esther comes from a rather famous family herself – she is the daughter of acclaimed actor Ewan McGregor. She’s even shared the screen with her father in projects like Obi-Wan Kenobi (2022) and the drama Bleeding Love (2023). Her other previous work includes Babygirl (2024) and High School. With such a lineage and a growing resume, Esther McGregor is definitely a name to watch in the industry!
Joseph Zada as Johnny Sinclair
Rounding out “The Liars” is Johnny Sinclair Dennis, played by Joseph Zada. Johnny is another of Cadence’s cousins and a Sinclair grandchild, known for his charismatic, confident, and mischievous nature. For Johnny, summer is all about fun, but as home truths surface, he’s held accountable for his actions. The series also notably explores Johnny’s identity as a queer character, adding another layer to the intricate family dynamics within the cast of We Were Liars.
Joseph Zada has an impressive list of credits for a young actor. He’s featured in roles such as Bilched (2019) and The Speedway Murders (2023). He also has exciting upcoming projects like Total Control (2025) and Invisible Boys (2025). He’s slated to appear in Netflix’s East of Eden (2026) and, thrillingly for fans of a certain dystopian franchise, will play a young Haymitch Abernathy in the upcoming Hunger Games prequel, Sunrise on the Reaping (2026). Joseph brings a compelling blend of charm and vulnerability to Johnny, making him an integral part of this captivating ensemble.
The Sinclair Matriarchs and Patriarchs: The Established Adult Cast of We Were Liars
While the young Liars certainly drive the mystery forward, the seasoned adult actors provide the deep, rich foundation of the Sinclair family’s immense wealth, complex relationships, and well-hidden secrets. These veteran performers bring to life the matriarchs and patriarchs of the family, whose past decisions and present conflicts create so much of the tension we see in We Were Liars. Their incredible performances are key to showing us the tangled web of love, loyalty, and lies that truly defines the Sinclairs.
David Morse and Wendy Crewson as Harris and Tipper Sinclair
At the very top of the Sinclair family tree, we find Harris and Tipper Sinclair, played by the wonderfully talented David Morse and Wendy Crewson. They’re the patriarch and matriarch who built this family’s media empire and created their seemingly perfect, yet tragically flawed, summer haven on Beechwood Island.
David Morse takes on the role of Harris Sinclair, the charming and outwardly kind family head who, as we soon find, might be “harbouring deep secrets.” David’s portrayal shows us a character far more complex and vulnerable than he first appears, despite his very strong presence. You’ll likely recognize David Morse from his iconic role as Brutus ‘Brutal’ Howell in The Green Mile (1999). His long career also includes films like The Rock (1996) and TV shows such as St. Elsewhere. With Emmy and Tony nominations under his belt, his ability to show both strength and hidden fragility makes him absolutely perfect for Harris.
Wendy Crewson steps into the shoes of Tipper Sinclair, Harris’ wife and the mother of Penny, Bess, and Carrie. Tipper seems like the picture of matriarchal grace – polished and pampered. Wendy, a prolific Canadian actor, has graced both big and small screens. You might remember her as Grace Marshall in Air Force One (1997) or from The Santa Clause trilogy. She brings a quiet authority and subtle complexity to Tipper, giving us hints of the many layers beneath the Sinclair family’s carefully built image.
Mamie Gummer, Caitlin FitzGerald, and Candice King as the Sinclair Sisters
Moving to the next generation, we meet the three daughters of Harris and Tipper: Carrie, Penny, and Bess. These sisters, each battling their own struggles and keeping their own secrets, truly form the emotional core of the adult cast of We Were Liars.
Mamie Gummer portrays Caroline ‘Carrie’ Sinclair, the eldest sister. Carrie is a reformed party girl who adores her two sons, Gat’s uncle Ed and Gat’s cousin. But returning to Beechwood Island threatens to bring her past crashing down. Mamie’s casting adds another layer of star power, as she’s the daughter of the legendary Meryl Streep (and yes, they even shared the screen in Ricki and the Flash!). Mamie has carved out an impressive career herself, with roles in The Good Wife and Emily Owens, M.D. She brings a nuanced performance to Carrie, beautifully showing her internal conflict and her dependence on her controlling father.
Caitlin FitzGerald plays Penelope ‘Penny’ Sinclair, Cadence’s mother. Penny is a woman whose sense of self and worth is deeply tied to her family’s name and wealth, and she’s currently going through a tough divorce. Caitlin is widely known for her role as Libby Masters on Showtime’s Masters of Sex and Tabitha Hayes on HBO’s Succession. Fun fact: she also appeared on the original Gossip Girl series, creating a neat connection with Emily Alyn Lind who starred in the reboot! Caitlin even described playing Penny, a character who avoids her feelings, as a “really delicious” role.
Candice King takes on the role of Elizabeth ‘Bess’ Sinclair, the youngest of the Sinclair sisters. Bess is a perfectionist who works hard and is devoted to her husband and children. She tries to keep up a seemingly perfect family image, but it’s beginning to crack. Candice is perhaps best recognized as the iconic Caroline Forbes from The Vampire Diaries (2009–2017), a character she also played in The Originals and Legacies. Her long-standing work with showrunner Julie Plec made her a natural choice; Plec and Carina Adly MacKenzie specifically wanted Candice’s “specific voice” for Bess, even initially thinking she might be too young for the part. If you’re a fan of supernatural dramas, you might also want to learn More about actress Sarah Catherine Hook.
Rahul Kohli as Ed Patil
Last but not least, we have Rahul Kohli as Ed Patil, Gat’s uncle and Carrie’s partner. Ed is a true “outsider” to the Sinclair family’s intense world, much like Gat. He offers a contrasting perspective to their closed-off, wealthy environment. His character is a grounding presence, often needing immense patience and endurance within the chaotic Sinclair household.
Rahul Kohli is a familiar face to anyone who loves genre television. You might know him as Dr. Ravi Chakrabarti on iZombie or from his fantastic collaborations with Mike Flanagan in The Haunting of Bly Manor, Midnight Mass, and The Fall of the House of Usher. Interestingly, Rahul Kohli actually replaced another actor in the role. Kohli himself mentioned that Ed’s patience and endurance are traits quite different from his own personality, pushing him to dig deep and find the motivations rooted in Ed’s deep love for Carrie and his family. He brings a quiet strength and warmth to the role, making Ed a compelling counterpoint to the Sinclairs’ privileged world.
Behind the Lies: The Creative Team and Tone of the Series
Bringing a beloved book to life on screen is no small feat! For We Were Liars, the magic happens not just with its fantastic cast of We Were Liars, but also thanks to the brilliant minds working behind the scenes. This creative team faced a big challenge: turning a complex novel into a captivating show. And let me tell you, their journey to get it on screen was quite the trip!
Leading the charge are two very talented showrunners: Julie Plec and Carina Adly MacKenzie. If you’re a fan of teen dramas, you’ll likely know Julie Plec from her work on The Vampire Diaries. Carina Adly MacKenzie also has a great track record, having created Roswell, New Mexico. Their combined experience in telling emotional stories for young adults made them the perfect pair to tackle the twists and turns of the Sinclair family.
Getting We Were Liars to your screen was a bit of a marathon! We learned it started out as a movie idea, then Netflix picked it up, then dropped it. But don’t worry, it finally landed at its perfect home with Amazon in 2022, where it got an eight-episode order. What makes this adaptation extra special is that the book’s own author, E. Lockhart, is deeply involved. She’s a writer and producer on the show, which means fans can trust that the story stays true to its roots. Plus, her involvement allowed for some wonderful additions, like exploring Johnny Sinclair’s queer identity and giving us an even deeper look into Gat’s world.
So, what kind of show is We Were Liars? Imagine a gripping psychological thriller mixed with plenty of drama, mystery, and even a touch of romance. This series isn’t afraid to dive into big topics like privilege, extreme wealth, and how class and race can shape lives. It’s truly a cautionary tale about the dangers of “familial greed.” The show’s atmosphere is incredibly moody, especially with Beechwood Island as its backdrop. This, combined with the unfolding mystery, creates a suspenseful and emotionally charged experience that pulls you right in, whether you’re watching from Chicago or your own home. Talented directors, like Nzingha Stewart who directed the very first episode, really help set this unique visual and emotional tone, making you feel like you’re right there on the island with the Sinclairs. For even more details about the series, you can always check out the official synopsis from Amazon Studios.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Cast of We Were Liars
We know you have questions, and we’re here to answer them! Let’s explore some common inquiries about the cast of We Were Liars and how they bring this captivating story to life.
How does the cast reflect the characters from the book?
When a book as beloved as We Were Liars gets adapted, fans naturally have high hopes for how the characters will look on screen. Good news! The cast of We Were Liars truly brings E. Lockhart’s novel to life with incredible emotional depth and accuracy.
The talented young actors – Emily Alyn Lind, Shubham Maheshwari, Esther McGregor, and Joseph Zada – perfectly capture the heart of Cadence, Gat, Mirren, and Johnny. For instance, Emily Alyn Lind’s Cadence beautifully shows us a character haunted by a fragmented past. Shubham Maheshwari’s casting as Gat was a thoughtful choice, allowing the show to explore themes of diversity and class even more deeply than in the book, thanks to the addition of four South Asian writers on the team. And Joseph Zada’s portrayal of Johnny, including his journey of queer identity, enriches the story while staying true to its original spirit.
The seasoned adult actors, like David Morse, Wendy Crewson, Mamie Gummer, Caitlin FitzGerald, and Candice King, also add layers of nuance to the complex Sinclair family. It certainly helps that E. Lockhart, the author herself, was involved as a writer and producer. This direct connection ensured that the on-screen characters truly resonate with the heart of her original work.
Are there any famous family connections in the cast of We Were Liars?
Yes, absolutely! It’s always a treat to find that talent runs in the family, and the cast of We Were Liars has some pretty cool connections that add an extra spark to the show.
Here are a few of the famous family ties you might spot:
- Emily Alyn Lind, who plays Cadence Sinclair Eastman, is the daughter of actress Barbara Alyn Woods. Emily practically grew up on set, often accompanying her mom from a very young age!
- Esther McGregor, who brings Mirren Sinclair to life, is the daughter of the acclaimed actor Ewan McGregor. They’ve even shared the screen in projects like Obi-Wan Kenobi and Bleeding Love.
- Mamie Gummer, who portrays Carrie Sinclair, is the daughter of the legendary Meryl Streep. Mamie has built an impressive career of her own, and she even appeared alongside her mother in the film Ricki and the Flash.
These connections not only highlight the incredible talent within these families but also bring a unique dimension to the series, as some of these actors have truly grown up immersed in entertainment.
Where can I watch We Were Liars?
Fantastic news for all you mystery and drama lovers! We Were Liars is readily available for streaming on Prime Video, accessible to subscribers from New York to Los Angeles. If you have an Amazon Prime subscription, you’re all set to dive into the intricate world of the Sinclairs and uncover their secrets whenever you’re ready.
The series is made up of eight captivating episodes, making it the perfect choice for a weekend binge-watch. So, get your favorite snacks ready, find a comfy spot, and prepare to be utterly captivated by all the twists and turns on Beechwood Island!
Conclusion
Well, what a journey! We’ve just taken a deep dive into the intricate family tree of the Sinclairs and met the incredible actors who bring them to life. It’s truly clear that the cast of We Were Liars is something special – a truly remarkable ensemble.
We’ve seen how the rising stars, like Emily Alyn Lind, Shubham Maheshwari, Esther McGregor, and Joseph Zada, pour youthful energy and deep emotion into their roles. They bring their characters to life with such intensity! And then there are the seasoned veterans – David Morse, Wendy Crewson, Mamie Gummer, Caitlin FitzGerald, Candice King, and Rahul Kohli – who bring a wealth of experience and layers of complexity to the screen. Every single actor plays a vital part in weaving this unforgettable story.
Together, their collective performances truly breathe life into E. Lockhart’s complex characters, making this psychological thriller an absolutely captivating watch. The beautiful New England setting, actually filmed in Nova Scotia, adds so much to the show’s moody atmosphere. While we at The Dining Destination can’t promise you any specific culinary trips from Beechwood Island itself, we can promise a story that will keep you on the edge of your seat!
Here at The Dining Destination, we love guiding you through exciting new experiences, whether it’s finding amazing food in Boston or diving into the latest entertainment that gets everyone talking in New York. The cast of We Were Liars certainly gives us plenty to talk about, offering a rich, dramatic feast for your eyes and mind. We truly hope this guide has helped you get to know everyone involved in this intriguing series. Want to explore more fascinating shows and movies? You can always explore more entertainment resource guides right here on our platform!
