The Following Season 1 Episode 1 cast and characters: Here's who brought the Fox crime thriller to life

The Following dives deep into the world of crime. There is a distinct compilation of mysteries coupled with the tense atmosphere, which perfectly caters to the storyline. The first episode of The Following Season 1 sets the stage with the drama by introducing the characters, along with making the viewers acquainted with the upcoming trouble.

Ryan Hardy’s life takes a turn after he is called back for a case. Though he had solved it years back, as the culprit escaped the prison, he needs to bring forth his skills to catch him once again.

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The Following Season 1 Episode 1 cast and characters

1) Kevin Bacon as Ryan Hardy

Kevin Bacon’s Ryan Hardy’s life takes an unexpected turn after he is called back for a case that completely changed his life a few years back. Ryan is called for the case. He promptly reaches the location where Carroll massacred the guards before escaping the high-security prison. It can be understood that the brutal murder scene affects him.

Yet he tries to maintain his composure for the case. Initially, he is asked to be present at the location just as a consultant, as his presence would raise many eyebrows. It cannot be denied that Kevin Bacon’s distinct presence in this series as Ryan Hardy leaves an impact. His acting prowess is truly worth appreciating as he captures the difficulties that Ryan goes through. Some of Kevin Bacon’s other projects include Mystic River, Hollow Man, Murder in the First, Apollo 13, etc.

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2) Maggie Grace as Sarah Fuller

Maggie Grace’s performance as Sarah Fuller perfectly depicts the trauma that Sarah had because of Carroll. She was Carroll’s last victim. She somehow managed to survive Carroll’s attack and even testified at the court, after which Carroll was sent to prison.

Now that Carroll is free, Sarah’s life is in danger. Maggie Grace’s other notable projects include Lost, Californication, Susanna, Fear the Walking Dead, etc.

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3) Natalie Zea as Claire Matthews

Natalie Zea’s Claire Mathews becomes a crucial character in this episode because of her connection with Carroll. She is Carroll’s ex-wife. After Ryan begins to investigate, he indicates that the focus should be on Claire Matthews, as Carroll could contact her.

Natalie Zea brings out Claire’s worrisome state in a distinct manner. Claire also needs to keep her son away from the current situation with his father, which becomes difficult for her. Natalie Zea’s other works include Eyes, Dirty Sexy Money, The Defenders, Justified, etc.

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4) Billy Brown as Agent Troy Riley

Despite being present for a short period of time in The Following, Billy Brown’s Troy Riley left a lasting impact on the series. Troy Riley helped Ryan navigate through the situation. He gave him the minute details of the case right from the moment he arrived.

There is a distinct authenticity in the manner in which Billy Brown depicts Troy Riley’s character. He makes Troy a memorable presence in the series. Some of Billy Brown’s works are Dexter, How to Get Away with Murder, Sons of Anarchy, Hostages, etc.

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5) Shawn Ashmore as Mike Weston

Shawn Ashmore’s Mike Weston becomes a significant character in this episode because of his in-depth knowledge about Carroll and Ryan Hardy. He looks up to Ryan for his ability to single-handedly capture Carroll.

His intense observation skills also come in handy for the case when a woman kills herself with Poe’s words written all over her body. Just as with his other projects, such as Legend of Earthsea, Quantum Break, Terry, etc., Shawn Ashmore brings his A-game in this series as well with his performance.

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Other cast members of this episode include:

• Jeananne Goossen
• Valorie Curry
• Adan Canto
• James Purefoy
• John Lafayette
• Steve Monroe

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