Gilmore Girls character guide: Get to know Lorelai, Rory, their best friends, and more

Lorelai Gilmore

Played by: Lauren Graham

The gorgeous, single mom of teenage Rory who ran away from home after she got pregnant at 16 because she didn't want to get married to her then-boyfriend. She moves to Stars Hollow, where she and Rory manage life, romantic relationships, and an unbreakable bond (that cracks sometimes.)

Luke is the one for her, but exes, breakups, and so much more get in the way of their love (well, true love always wins, if you know what we mean.)

Lorelai is witty, loves pop culture (her wearing a "Juicy Couture" tracksuit that Emily thought were pajamas is peak '00s), and occasionally (okay, more than that) indulges in coffee, junk food, and shopping.

Rory Gilmore

Played by: Alexis Bledel

Rory is the (fast-talking, just like her mom) daughter of Lorelai and an academic scholar with dreams of attending Harvard. Some might say she's a spoiled brat, but Rory is truly just a teen going through heartbreaks, lessons, growth, and more. Lorelai is her hero; they're more like best friends than mother and daughter, which sometimes strains their relationship as Rory gets older.

Her dreams of attending Harvard led her to Chilton Academy, where she had an academic rivalry with Paris Geller before they became friends. Chilton also led her to a relationship with her grandparents, Emily and Richard.

Of course, her love interests interfered with her decision-making (well, mostly made her question her choices.)

Sookie St. James

Played by: Melissa McCarthy

She's Lorelai's ride-or-die, partner in crime, bestie—you name it. In addition to being Lorelai's devoted and talented friend, Sookie is an executive chef and Lorelai's supportive business partner. Not to mention, she was a massive advocate for her bestie's relationship with Luke.

In the episode "Kiss And Tell," where Dean gives Rory her first kiss, Sookie just couldn't wait to see Rory and her new "boo." She brought dessert (as a great friend would) and to be nosy...and you know what, that was so real of her.

Sookie is also married to a quirky vegetable farmer and is a mother.

Lane Kim

Played by: Keiko Agena

Rory's best friend was born to strict parents. She yearns for independence and to explore her passions and personal interests that aren't considered traditional by her family.

Throughout the series, Lane navigates a complex relationship with her parents as she looks to live a more mainstream life.

Michel Gerard

Played by: Yanic Truesdale

The best word to describe Michel is impatient. The French concierge starts off as standoffish but eventually warms up to the Stars Hollow community.

Michel's quirks: an obsession with Destiny's Child, a strict diet limited to 12 blueberries per day, and a love for Celine Dion's music.

Luke Danes

Played by: Scott Patterson

Luke owns Luke's Diner and is one of Lorelai's love interests. He's actually THE ONE for her, but of course, a lot gets in the way before they settle down and marry (which happens later.) He's dependable, hard-working, and often serious, but of course, he develops a soft spot for Lorelai and cares about Rory.

He has a nephew named Jess who comes to live with him (and has heart eyes for Rory.)

He had a romance with Rachel and even had a short-lived marriage, but no one compared to Lorelai.

Emily Gilmore

Played by: Kelly Bishop

Emily is the unintentionally judgemental mom of Lorelai (Rory's grandmother.) She clearly wants the best for her family, but the ways she goes about it are...a little questionable. The way she acts stems from her upbringing in high society. Emily adores Rory but has a strained relationship with Lorelai (they have their ups and downs, but the love is always there.)

Richard Gilmore

Played by: Edward Herrmann

Richard is Lorelai's dad (Rory's grandfather), and he has a more relaxed bond with their daughter than Emily does. His Yale background is the main factor in Rory attending the school. Ricard builds a bond with Rory throughout the series, which helps ease tension during the family's Friday night dinners.

Paris Geller

Played by: Liza Weil

Paris is Rory's academic rival, but they eventually become friends. Paris was raised by her nanny and wealthy parents, but she has her own life issues, just like everyone else.

We can't lie, though. She was SO annoying when she was Rory's hater. (Yeah, we said it!)

Kirk Gleason

Played by: Sean Gunn

The man, the myth, the legend. No, literally, Kirk does EVERYTHING. He's quirky and good-hearted but switched jobs quicker than you can snap your fingers. A new venture hates to see Kirk Gleason coming; he's a true go-getter.

He also has a little crush on Lorelai.

Dean Forester

Played by: Jared Padalecki

Dean is one of Rory's love interests. He was Rory's first boyfriend, but their relationship faces challenges due to his jealousy of Rory's hidden feelings for Jess Mariano.

Their relationship was on and off for a bit, with Rory even becoming the second woman at one point. (Dean was married and having an affair with Rory in later seasons.)

Jess Mariano

Played by: Milo Ventimiglia

Jess is Luke's nephew. He has a troubled demeanor and comes to stay with his uncle after conflicts with his mother. He and Rory share interests and build a friendship that later turns into something deeper.

However, their relationship is full of miscommunication and personal growth. Jess eventually moves to be with his estranged father.