This character guide explores the intertwined lives of doctors and their loved ones at Royaume Northwestern Hospital. As they navigate professional rivalries, personal crises, and unexpected connections, these characters grapple with themes of healing, sacrifice, and the courage to be vulnerable.
Main Characters
Dr. Briana Ortiz
Briana, an ER doctor, is the witty and fiercely loyal protagonist of Yours Truly. The story unfolds primarily from her perspective as she juggles the complexities of finalizing her divorce from Nick, caring for her critically ill brother Benny, and navigating an unexpected romance with her initially perceived rival. Scarred by past betrayals, Briana uses sarcasm as a shield, making her hesitant to trust and open her heart again. However, her dedication to her work and unwavering love for her brother reveal a depth of character that draws others to her, especially Dr. Jacob Maddox.
Dr. Jacob Maddox
Jacob, the kind and thoughtful newcomer to Royaume Northwestern's ER, is Briana's eventual love interest. Beneath his quiet exterior lies a struggle with clinical social anxiety, which often leads to misunderstandings and isolation. Despite his personal challenges, Jacob possesses a deep well of empathy, leading him to anonymously donate a kidney to Benny. His connection with Briana blossoms through a series of anonymous letters and a fake-dating arrangement, providing him with a safe space to be himself and allowing Briana to see beyond his initial awkwardness. His past relationship with Amy and his close bond with his brother Jeremiah add layers to his character, highlighting his capacity for loyalty and sacrifice.
Supporting Characters
Benny Ortiz
Benny is Briana's younger brother, whose battle with kidney failure and depression sets the story in motion. Initially withdrawn and hopeless, the prospect of a kidney transplant revitalizes him, giving him a second chance at life and love.
Alexis
As Briana's best friend, Alexis is a constant source of support and wisdom. Happily married and pregnant, she offers a grounded perspective on Briana's life and budding relationship with Jacob, encouraging her to embrace happiness.
Amy
Amy is Jacob's well-intentioned but ultimately incompatible ex-girlfriend. Her engagement to Jeremiah creates initial turmoil for Jacob and inadvertently pushes him toward Briana.
Jeremiah
Jeremiah is Jacob's younger brother and Amy's fiancé. Outgoing and friendly, he is a much better match for Amy than Jacob was, illustrating the importance of compatibility in relationships.
Dr. Zander Reese
Zander, Jacob's best friend and Benny's nephrologist, is the crucial link between the Jacob and the Ortiz family. He facilitates the kidney donation process and encourages Jacob to pursue his connection with Briana.
Minor Characters
- Dr. Gibson: The retiring Chief of Emergency Medicine whose decision to delay the vote for his replacement creates the initial professional rivalry between Briana and Jacob.
- The Maddox Family: Jacob's boisterous and loving family, including his parents Joy and Greg, and sisters Jewel, Jill, and Jane. Their well-meaning interference is the reason Jacob invents a fake girlfriend, setting the main romance in motion.
- Nick: Briana's cheating ex-husband. His betrayal is the source of Briana's deep-seated trust issues. His brief appearance with his new, pregnant wife at the Epilogue Summary (actually, the wedding) is a major catalyst for Briana's emotional crisis.
- Jessica: An OB-GYN and Briana's cynical, man-hating friend, who ironically is the first to tell Briana that Jacob is a "wonderful man."
- Jocelyn and Hector: Nurses at Royaume Northwestern who initially dislike Jacob, calling him "Dr. Death," but are eventually won over by his kindness (and cupcakes).
Character Relationships & Dynamics
The characters in Yours Truly are intricately connected through a web of family ties, friendships, and professional relationships.
- Briana and Jacob are at the heart of the story, their initial rivalry giving way to a deep and supportive love. Their relationship is built on mutual understanding and acceptance, allowing them to heal from past wounds.
- The bond between Briana and Benny is a driving force in the narrative, highlighting the lengths to which family members will go to support each other.
- Jacob's relationships with Amy and Jeremiah add complexity to his character, demonstrating his loyalty and his willingness to prioritize the happiness of others, even at his own expense.
- Alexis serves as a grounding force for Briana, offering a steady presence and wise counsel.
- Zander's friendship with Jacob and his role as Benny's doctor create a crucial link between the two main characters, facilitating their connection.