Tyler Perry’s The Haves and the Have Nots captivated audiences for eight seasons with its intense drama, shocking plot twists, and unforgettable characters. Airing from 2013 to 2021 on the Oprah Winfrey Network (OWN), the show quickly became a fan-favorite and one of OWN’s most successful scripted series. But beyond the gripping storylines, much of the show’s success came from its dynamic and talented cast.
In this article, we explore The Haves and the Have Nots cast, where they are now, and how the show helped shape their careers.
Who Starred in The Haves and the Have Nots?
The Haves and the Have Nots cast featured a diverse ensemble of actors who brought life to the affluent Cryer and Harrington families, as well as the working-class Young family. The characters’ intertwining lives, marked by power struggles, betrayal, and secrets, kept viewers hooked.
Let’s take a closer look at the core cast and their roles on the show.
Tika Sumpter as Candace Young
Tika Sumpter played Candace Young, the intelligent but manipulative daughter of Hanna Young. A central figure in the series, Candace’s ambition and scheming led to countless twists. Before joining the show, Sumpter gained recognition on One Life to Live and in films like Ride Along. Since the series ended, she has continued acting in movies such as Sonic the Hedgehog and its sequel, and is also involved in producing.
John Schneider as Jim Cryer
Known for his role as Bo Duke on The Dukes of Hazzard, John Schneider portrayed Jim Cryer, a corrupt judge and patriarch of the wealthy Cryer family. His performance was praised for its depth and intensity. After the show concluded, Schneider returned to country music and independent film projects, while continuing to connect with fans through personal appearances and social media.
Crystal Fox as Hanna Young
Crystal Fox gave a powerful performance as Hanna Young, a devout and moral housekeeper who often found herself entangled in her daughter Candace’s troubles. Fox, who also starred in Big Little Lies, received acclaim for her grounded portrayal of a woman constantly struggling between faith and family. Since the series ended, she has remained active in both television and theater.
Renee Lawless as Katheryn Cryer
As Katheryn Cryer, Renee Lawless played a woman trapped in a cold marriage while dealing with personal tragedy. Her character’s evolution throughout the series showcased Lawless’s range and charisma. Lawless continues to work in entertainment, including TV guest roles and live theater.
Angela Robinson as Veronica Harrington
No character was as feared or fascinating as Veronica Harrington, portrayed by Angela Robinson. Known for her elegance, cunning, and cold-hearted schemes, Veronica quickly became one of the show's standout villains. Robinson’s performance earned her praise and a loyal fanbase. Since the show’s finale, she has returned to stage acting and taken part in social justice initiatives.
Tyler Lepley as Benny Young
Tyler Lepley played Benny Young, Hanna’s loyal and often impulsive son. As a fan favorite, his presence brought heart and conflict to the series. Post-show, Lepley has landed roles in hit series like P-Valley and continues to expand his acting portfolio in film and television.
Gavin Houston as Jeffrey Harrington
Gavin Houston portrayed Jeffrey Harrington, Veronica’s closeted son who struggled with his identity and his mother’s manipulation. Houston’s nuanced performance made Jeffrey one of the show’s most sympathetic characters. After the show ended, Gavin has continued to act in various TV movies and soap operas.
Supporting Cast That Left a Mark
While the primary cast drove much of the plot, The Haves and the Have Nots also featured several memorable supporting actors:
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Peter Parros as David Harrington, Veronica’s husband and a respected judge.
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Aaron O'Connell as Wyatt Cryer, the troubled son of Jim and Katheryn.
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Jaclyn Betham as Amanda Cryer, whose mental health storyline left a lasting impression.
Each actor brought something unique, contributing to the rich tapestry of drama that defined the series.
Legacy of the Haves and the Have Nots Cast
The cast of The Haves and the Have Nots not only entertained millions but also broke barriers. As one of the first prime-time dramas on a Black-owned network with a predominantly Black cast, the show opened doors and sparked conversations about class, race, sexuality, and justice.
The actors gained widespread recognition, allowing many of them to transition to other high-profile roles in film, television, and stage. The series also demonstrated Tyler Perry’s ability to develop long-form storytelling that balances soap opera thrills with deeper social themes.
The Haves and the Have Nots cast played a crucial role in making the series a cultural phenomenon. From the chilling power plays of Veronica Harrington to the emotional journey of Hanna Young, each actor contributed to a show that held viewers' attention for nearly a decade.
While the series may have ended in 2021, the legacy of the cast lives on through their ongoing work and the impact they had on television. Whether you're revisiting the show or discovering it for the first time, The Haves and the Have Nots and its talented cast continue to resonate.
Stay tuned to see where these gifted performers go next — because for fans, the drama is never truly over.
