How to Get Away with a Murderer Cast: 7 Fun Facts

How to Get Away with a Murderer Cast: A Deep Dive Into the Stars of the Hit Series

How to Get Away with a Murderer Cast

When How to Get Away with Murder first aired in 2014, it wasn’t just another legal drama. It was a powerhouse of storytelling, suspense, and — most importantly — a brilliant ensemble cast that kept audiences hooked until the very last episode in 2020. The show, created by Peter Nowalk and produced by Shonda Rhimes, became a pop culture phenomenon. But what really made it stand out? The cast.

Let’s dive deep into the lives, roles, and real-world journeys of the iconic cast that brought this twist-filled series to life.

The Leading Lady – Viola Davis as Annalise Keating

A Trailblazing Role

Viola Davis was the heartbeat of HTGAWM. As Annalise Keating, a criminal defense lawyer and law professor with a dark past and complex emotions, she redefined what a TV lead could be — powerful, flawed, vulnerable, and fiercely intelligent.

Awards and Impact

Viola made history in 2015 by becoming the first Black woman to win the Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series. Her performance wasn’t just award-winning — it was genre-defining. She brought rawness to the screen that left fans and critics stunned week after week.

The Keating Five – Core Student Characters

Alfred Enoch as Wes Gibbins

From the pilot episode, Wes was the moral compass — the “puppy,” as fans lovingly called him. Alfred Enoch (you might also know him as Dean Thomas from Harry Potter) gave Wes a gentle strength and tragic backstory that made his untimely death one of the show’s most heartbreaking moments.

Jack Falahee as Connor Walsh

Connor was all sharp suits, quick wit, and emotional baggage. Jack Falahee portrayed a character who was openly gay, complex, sometimes ruthless, and always captivating. Connor’s relationship with Oliver became one of the most beloved LGBTQ+ romances on TV.

Aja Naomi King as Michaela Pratt

Michaela wanted to be the next Annalise, and Aja Naomi King delivered her ambition, drive, and eventual disillusionment perfectly. Her transformation over the seasons showed the dangers of power and the pain of striving to be someone else.

Matt McGorry as Asher Millstone

The comic relief? Sometimes. But Asher became so much more. Matt McGorry (also known from Orange Is the New Black) gave Asher depth, showing a man trying to escape his privileged past and become someone better. His fate? Let’s just say fans are still reeling.

Karla Souza as Laurel Castillo

Mysterious, intense, and layered — Laurel had secrets that could fill another series. Karla Souza portrayed her with grace and grit, especially in the tangled relationship with Frank and her journey as a mother.

Key Supporting Cast Members

Billy Brown as Nate Lahey

Detective Nate Lahey was Annalise’s on-and-off love interest, but he was also a symbol of justice turning gray. Billy Brown brought strength and soul to a man caught between the law and personal loyalty.

Liza Weil as Bonnie Winterbottom

Loyal to a fault, Bonnie was Annalise’s confidante and assistant. Liza Weil (formerly of Gilmore Girls fame) showed Bonnie’s quiet pain and trauma, creating one of the most layered characters on the show.

Charlie Weber as Frank Delfino

The hitman with a heart? Frank was messy, violent, loyal, and emotional. Charlie Weber made Frank more than just the “muscle” — he was an essential part of the show’s soul.

Recurring and Guest Stars

Famke Janssen as Eve Rothlo

As Annalise’s former lover and fellow attorney, Famke Janssen added emotional complexity and history to Annalise’s past. Their chemistry? Off the charts.

Cicely Tyson as Ophelia Harkness

The late, legendary Cicely Tyson brought warmth and wisdom as Annalise’s mother. Her Emmy-nominated appearances were unforgettable and emotionally powerful.

Rome Flynn as Gabriel Maddox

Introduced later in the series, Rome Flynn played the mysterious Gabriel, whose arrival stirred chaos and added new layers to the already tangled web of lies.

The Chemistry That Made the Show Work

The secret sauce of HTGAWM? Chemistry. Whether it was fiery arguments, courtroom drama, or emotional breakdowns, the cast made every scene feel alive. Off-screen, the actors often posted behind-the-scenes moments, showing genuine friendships and mutual respect.

Behind the Scenes Talents

Shonda Rhimes and the Production Team

While Peter Nowalk created the show, Shonda Rhimes’s influence as executive producer gave the series its signature twisty, high-stakes vibe. The Shondaland magic was strong.

Writing, Casting, and Directing Excellence

The writing team delivered shocking reveals and bold character arcs season after season. From jaw-dropping plot twists to emotional monologues, the writing made the actors shine.

Where Are They Now?

Post-show Careers of the Main Cast

• Viola Davis: Continued her reign with The Woman King, Air, and her Oscar-nominated role in Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom.
• Alfred Enoch: Returned to British TV and theater, including a role in Foundation.
• Jack Falahee: Starred in indie films and became active in social causes.
• Aja Naomi King: Took on roles in films like Sylvie’s Love and became a voice in diversity activism.
• Matt McGorry: Focused on activism, social justice, and independent projects.
• Karla Souza: Returned to Spanish-language cinema and TV.

Film, TV, and Stage Projects \How to Get Away with a Murderer Cast

Many cast members have also ventured into producing, directing, or Broadway, continuing to shape storytelling in fresh ways.

Fan Reactions and Cultural Impact

HTGAWM wasn’t just a hit — it was a movement. It sparked conversations about race, sexuality, mental health, and justice. The show’s diverse cast and fearless storytelling broke barriers and redefined what prime-time drama could be.

Memorable Moments from the Cast

Who could forget:

• Annalise’s “Why is your penis on a dead girl’s phone?” moment
• Wes’s shocking death
• The Annalise-Keating Five flash-forward scenes
• Bonnie and Frank’s tragic ending

These moments were as iconic as the characters who lived them.

Awards and Recognition

• Viola Davis: Primetime Emmy, Screen Actors Guild Awards, NAACP Image Awards
• Ensemble nominations from GLAAD, People’s Choice, and TV Guide
• Critical acclaim for its storytelling, diversity, and social relevance

How to Get Away with a Murderer Cast

How to Get Away with a Murderer Cast Conclusion

How to Get Away with Murder may have ended, but the cast’s impact is everlasting. Each actor brought something unique, unforgettable, and deeply human to the screen. They made us cheer, cry, gasp, and binge-watch like there was no tomorrow. This show wasn’t just about how to get away with murder — it was about how to create television magic.

How to Get Away with a Murderer Cast FAQs

Q1: Who played Annalise Keating in How to Get Away with Murder?
A: Viola Davis portrayed the powerful and complex Annalise Keating.

Q2: What happened to Wes in HTGAWM?
A: Wes Gibbins, played by Alfred Enoch, was tragically killed in Season 3, shaking up the show’s entire narrative.

Q3: Are Connor and Oliver a real couple in real life?
A: No, Jack Falahee (Connor) and Conrad Ricamora (Oliver) are not dating in real life, but they remain close friends.

Q4: How many seasons does HTGAWM have?
A: The series ran for 6 seasons, from 2014 to 2020.

Q5: Where can I watch How to Get Away with Murder now?
A: The show is available for streaming on Netflix and ABC’s platforms, depending on your region.