Goliath is one of Amazon Prime Video’s most acclaimed original series, blending courtroom drama with gritty realism and compelling characters. Starring Academy Award winner Billy Bob Thornton, the show has earned praise for its writing, cinematography, and especially its talented ensemble. The Goliath cast is packed with veteran actors and scene-stealing newcomers who bring the story to life across all four seasons.
In this article, we take a closer look at the main Goliath cast, exploring the key players who made this legal thriller a must-watch for fans of dramatic, character-driven storytelling.
Billy Bob Thornton as Billy McBride
Leading the Goliath cast, Billy Bob Thornton plays Billy McBride, a once-successful but now down-and-out lawyer who finds himself taking on powerful corporations and corrupt systems. Thornton’s performance is the heart of the show, earning him a Golden Globe for Best Actor in a Television Series – Drama.
Thornton brings a nuanced, world-weary charisma to the role, balancing cynicism with flashes of hope. As Billy navigates personal demons and professional battles, Thornton keeps viewers hooked with every scene.
Nina Arianda as Patty Solis-Papagian
Nina Arianda shines as Patty Solis-Papagian, a real estate agent-turned-legal associate who becomes Billy’s trusted partner. Her sharp wit and no-nonsense attitude add humor and depth to the show. Patty is an unconventional character in the legal world, and Arianda brings her to life with energy and flair.
As part of the core Goliath cast, Patty adds a strong female presence and complements Billy’s rough-around-the-edges style with her own brand of professionalism and loyalty.
Tania Raymonde as Brittany Gold
Tania Raymonde plays Brittany Gold, a legal assistant and one of Billy’s closest allies. Originally introduced as a sex worker who helps Billy with his cases, Brittany evolves into a central figure in his legal team.
Raymonde delivers a compelling performance that combines street smarts with emotional vulnerability. Her character represents the show's theme of redemption and unexpected strength, making her a standout in the Goliath cast.
Diana Hopper as Denise McBride
Diana Hopper portrays Denise McBride, Billy’s teenage daughter. Throughout the series, Denise is often caught between her loyalty to her father and her desire for stability. Hopper captures this emotional tension with authenticity, showing Denise’s growth over the seasons.
As a younger member of the Goliath cast, Hopper brings a refreshing contrast to the seasoned adults around her and helps ground Billy’s motivations in something deeply personal.
William Hurt as Donald Cooperman
In Season 1, William Hurt plays Donald Cooperman, Billy’s former legal partner and now reclusive adversary. Disfigured and living in the shadows, Cooperman is a mysterious and intimidating presence.
Hurt’s haunting performance adds layers of menace and complexity to the first season, establishing the high-stakes world in which Billy operates. His role is a crucial part of what makes the Goliath cast so unforgettable in its debut season.
Standout Season Additions to the Goliath Cast
While the main cast forms the show’s emotional core, each season of Goliath introduces new characters played by high-profile actors, keeping the story fresh and engaging.
Mark Duplass as Tom Wyatt (Season 2)
Mark Duplass joins the Goliath cast in Season 2 as Tom Wyatt, a powerful developer hiding dark secrets. His calm exterior masks sinister intentions, making him a compelling antagonist.
Duplass’s performance stands out as one of the most chilling in the series, showing how each season raises the bar with its cast.
Dennis Quaid as Wade Blackwood (Season 3)
Veteran actor Dennis Quaid brings star power to Season 3 as Wade Blackwood, a wealthy and corrupt water baron. His portrayal of greed and arrogance adds weight to the season’s environmental themes.
J.K. Simmons as George Zax (Season 4)
In the final season, J.K. Simmons plays George Zax, a pharmaceutical tycoon involved in shady business dealings. Simmons delivers his signature intensity, making George Zax a powerful final adversary for Billy McBride.
These rotating villains help keep each season of Goliath unique while showcasing the strength and diversity of the Goliath cast.
Supporting Cast and Guest Stars
Throughout its run, Goliath features an impressive list of supporting actors and guest appearances, including:
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Maria Bello as Michelle McBride
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Lou Diamond Phillips as Oscar Suarez
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Sherilyn Fenn as Gina Larson
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Paul Williams as J.T. Springs
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Bruce Dern as Frank Zax
Each actor brings their own flavor to the legal and personal drama, enhancing the richness of the show.
Why the Goliath Cast Made the Series a Hit
The success of Goliath rests heavily on the shoulders of its stellar ensemble. The Goliath cast is filled with emotionally resonant, multidimensional performances that elevate the show beyond a typical legal drama. From Billy Bob Thornton’s award-winning lead role to the unforgettable antagonists introduced each season, the actors give the series its pulse.
If you haven’t yet watched Goliath, now is the perfect time to explore a show where the cast doesn’t just support the story—they define it.
