Cathy As the Everywoman of today, Cathy has endeared herself to millions through the continual struggle with the four basic guilt groups: Food, Love, Mother and Career. Cathy perseveres through diets and dating, work and weekends. Cathy is a multidimensional character that everyone can relate to - she's by turns pathetic, empowered, infuriating and lovable. Her trials and tribulations provide a delightfully funny, yet honest, look at the life of today's woman. We read. We identify. We laugh. Who could ask for more?

Irving Cathy's on-again off-again relationship with Irving became permanently "on" in February 2005 when she married him. It's unlikely that it's clear sailing from here on out.

Electra Cathy's canine alter ego, Electra understands and appreciates that after a tough day at work, a terrible date, a tête-à-tête with Mom or a trip to the gym, nothing soothes the senses like a piece of pizza.

Mom Like many women of her generation, Cathy's relationship with her well-meaning mother continues to be a rich tangle of love, anxiety, togetherness, rebellion, devotion, frustration, friendship, and hysteria. And, although her father says much less, he's a very important factor in Cathy's life...and often functions in the critical role of helping Cathy keep her sense of humor about Mom.

Charlene Office receptionist (and loudspeaker), Charlene navigated the rough waters of singledom with Cathy for more than 15 years before abandoning ship and marrying Simon, a former beau of Cathy's. Although now married, Charlene still serves as a sounding board for Cathy and the highs and lows inside the office and out.

Andrea Once the symbol of feminism, Andrea somehow got it all: career, family, (happiness?) and now doesn't know what to do with it. Struggling to maintain some semblance of a career while mothering two young children, Zenith and Gus with husband Luke, the only area in which Andrea feels she succeeds at the moment is feeling exhausted.

Mr. Pinkley Cathy's boss, Mr. Pinkley, actually has very little control over his office domain and subordinates, but his unrealistic expectations and requests provide ample fodder for frustration -- and humor -- from Cathy and her coworkers.