The Ultimate Survival Guide: Unraveling the Epic Cast and Characters of [TV Show Name]

Survival of the Thickest, a captivating Netflix series, features a talented ensemble of comedians and actors. The show revolves around the life of Mavis Beaumont, a stylist who uncovers her partner's infidelity, prompting her to navigate the dating scene as a single, black, plus-sized woman in bustling New York City. As her personal life takes unexpected turns, Mavis's professional career flourishes when she gains a viral client. Throughout the series, Mavis grapples with insecurities and gradually develops a newfound confidence. By the end of the first season, she becomes more self-assured in both her professional expertise and personal aspirations.

This compelling narrative draws inspiration from Michelle Buteau's collection of essays, Survival of the Thickest, serving as the basis for the show. Buteau, who not only co-created the series but also serves as an executive producer, writer, and actor, sought to champion inclusivity, a quality she yearned for during her own childhood (via NPR). Consequently, the show's casting embraces diversity by including queer, black, and plus-sized actors. Buteau even emphasizes the inclusive environment on set, where even straight male crew members feel comfortable donning wigs, dresses, and skirts (as reported by Decider). The cast of Survival of the Thickest splendidly exemplifies the beauty found in embracing all forms of diversity.

Michelle Buteau As Mavis Beaumont

Tasha Smith As Marley

Michelle Buteau takes on the lead role of Mavis Beaumont in Survival of the Thickest. With ambitious goals, Mavis is determined to establish her brand. Known for her comedic roles as the quirky best friend, Buteau steps into the spotlight as the protagonist in this project. In 2014, she achieved her breakthrough as Private Robinson in Enlisted. Buteau has also showcased her talent in TV series such as Tales Of The City and Bless The Harts. On the big screen, she portrayed memorable characters like Veronica in Always Be My Maybe, Martina in Isn't It Romantic, and Cammy in Almost Love. Alongside her work in films and TV shows, Michelle's stand-up comedy special, Welcome To Buteaupia, is another testament to her diverse talents.

Marley, Mavis's best friend who is queer and works as a financial executive, is portrayed by Tasha Smith in Survival of the Thickest. Known for her comedic roles, Smith rose to fame as Tasha King in the television series Boston Common. She received an NAACP Image Award nomination for Outstanding Actress in a Comedy Series for her role as Angela in For Better or Worse. Smith also gained recognition for her portrayal of Angela in the comedy film Why Did I Get Married? However, showcasing her versatility, Smith took on the character of Carol in the musical drama show Empire.

Tone Bell As Khalil

Throughout Survival of the Thickest, Tone Bell stars as Khalil, Mavis's best friend who is an artist with strong anti-capitalistic views and navigates a complicated relationship with a single mother. Bell's successful career as a comedian took off when he landed the role of RJ in Whitney. He has also showcased his acting skills in notable roles such as Teward Mulray in Bad Judge, Carter in Disjointed, Nick in Fam, and Russell in Truth Be Told. With a background in stand-up comedy, Bell has predominantly appeared in comedic roles, a fitting choice for his talents. In 2019, he recorded the comedy TV special Tone Bell: Can't Cancel This, showcasing his comedic prowess. However, Bell impressed audiences by breaking out of his comfort zone and delivering a powerful performance as John Levy in the dramatic film The United States Vs. Billie Holiday.

Marouane Zotti As Luca

Playing the role of Luca, the foreign love interest of Mavis in Survival of the Thickest is Marouane Zotti, an Italian actor. Luca and Mavis cross paths at a CC Bloom concert. Zotti first showcased his talent as Novice in the film In Memory Of Me. In addition, he effortlessly portrayed Fabrizio in the comedic movie (Im)perfetti Criminali. Despite predominantly appearing in comedies, Zotti displayed his versatility by taking on the role of Lui in Vetro, an action-packed thriller. Beyond the world of cinema, Zotti graced the screens as Mirko in the Italian comedy series Ridatemi Mia Moglie. Moreover, he captivated audiences as Basant in The Red Door and Biagio in I May Destroy You.

Taylor Selé As Jacque

Taylor Selé plays the role of Jacque, Mavis' unfaithful former boyfriend, in Survival of the Thickest. Selé's versatile acting skills have been showcased in various television shows, such as NCIS: New Orleans, Luke Cage, Orange Is The New Black, and Blue Bloods. This diverse range of roles reveals Selé's ability to excel in both dramatic and comedic performances, making him a true jack of all trades. Additionally, Selé has portrayed Renton Lowry in The Deuce, Coach in P-Valley, and E-Roc in Queens. Although he primarily focuses on television series, Selé delivered a memorable performance as Tommy Bones in Above The Shadows.

Miss Peppermint As Peppermint

In Survival of the Thickest, Miss Peppermint portrays a fictionalized version of herself named Peppermint, who graces the stage at the renowned CC Bloom club. Miss Peppermint gained recognition as a contestant on season 9 of RuPaul's Drag Race. Additionally, she showcased her acting talent as Nikki in Harlem, a witty NYC-based sitcom exploring the complexities of friendship, relationships, and careers. Miss Peppermint's versatility extends to her portrayal of Dr. Frank-N-Furter in the captivating Rocky Horror Show: Livestream Theatre production. Furthermore, this talented artist made history by originating the role of Pythio in the groundbreaking Broadway production Head Over Heels, becoming the first transgender woman to achieve this feat.

Survival Of The Thickest Supporting Cast & Characters

Garcelle Beauvais portrays the character Natasha, a prominent 90s supermodel known as Natasha Karina, in the captivating story Survival of the Thickest. With a successful career spanning decades, Beauvais has established herself as a talented actress since the 1980s. She has delivered remarkable performances as Fancy in The Jamie Foxx Show and as A.D.A. Valerie Haywood in NYPD Blue. Beauvais has also showcased her acting prowess in notable films such as Coming To America, Spider-Man: Homecoming, and Flight. Distinguished for her compelling dramatic roles, she sets herself apart from her fellow cast members.

Anissa Felix takes on the role of India, the girlfriend of Khalil and a single mother who is pursuing her studies in art, in Survival of the Thickest. Prior to joining this series, Felix has displayed her acting skills in episodic appearances on acclaimed shows including Pose, The Deuce, FBI, and The Good Fight.

Liza Treyger stars as Jade in Survival of the Thickest, where she portrays Mavis's unconventional and eccentric new roommate, who adopts aspects of black culture. Despite being a relative newcomer to the acting scene, Treyger made a strong impact since her debut in 2016. Her breakthrough role came as Melissa in Horace and Pete, a critically acclaimed tragicomedy series. Additionally, she showcased her talents as "Waitress At Denino's" in The King of Staten Island and portrayed "Commercial Makeup Artist" in the ensemble cast of Nope. (Source: NPR, Decider)