About

Thanks to a Japanese scientist's invention of synthetic blood, vampires have progressed from legendary monsters to fellow citizens overnight. And while humans have been safely removed from the menu, many remain apprehensive about these creatures "coming out of the coffin." Religious leaders and government officials around the world have chosen their sides, but in the small Louisiana town of Bon Temps, the jury is still out.

Local waitress Sookie Stackhouse (Anna Paquin), however, knows how it feels to be an outcast. "Cursed" with the ability to listen in on people's thoughts, she's also open-minded about the integration of vampires — particularly when it comes to Bill Compton (Stephen Moyer), a handsome 173-year-old living up the road. But at the service of Bill's less virtuous vampire associates, Sookie is drawn into a series of catastrophes that will put their love to the test.

The latest hit series from 'Six Feet Under' creator Alan Ball, 'True Blood' delves into the meticulously-crafted world of novelist Charlaine Harris. Described by the Emmy winning Ball as "popcorn for smart people," the first season of 'True Blood' caused an overnight sensation — and the new installments only build on his colorful cast of supernatural misfits.

Episodes

NOTHING BUT THE BLOOD

Synopsis:

In the parking lot outside Merlotte's, Tara screams her head off. A foot, toenails painted red, protrudes from a trash bag in the trunk of Andy Bellefleur's car. Drunk but taking charge, Andy steps up and yanks the bag aside, revealing the body of Miss Jeanette, whose heart has been ripped from her chest.

When the police arrive, Officer Kenya Jones questions Tara, who at first denies knowing the victim. Sookie can hear her friend's thoughts, however, and counsels Tara to be honest with the police. Sheriff Dearborn is also on the scene – and noticing that his lead detective has had a few too many – when Tara comes clean with Kenya, ensuring a long night of questioning.

Soundtrack:

KEEP THIS PARTY GOING

Synopsis:

Lafayette looks on in complete shock as Royce's dismembered body parts rain down on the basement dungeon. Eric, spattered with blood and more concerned with the highlighting foils in his hair than the gore surrounding him, drags Lafayette upstairs for questioning. In a room with Pam and Chow, Lafayette cuts to the chase: He knows he's here for selling V, and he's willing to give up everyone he's dealt with. When Eric asks what happened to Eddie, the prisoner stumbles for a moment but then admits that it "might have been” Jason Stackhouse who killed the vampire. Eric and Pam – talking together in Swedish – quickly agree that punishing Jason would just complicate things with Sookie, but Eric isn't through yet. A friend of his, a vampire named Godric, has gone missing in Dallas, and Eric wants to know if Lafayette can give up any drainers who might be responsible. When he's unable to provide Eric with useful information, Lafayette is forced, screaming, back to the dungeon.

Bill and Sookie lounge in bed, enjoying the glow of the makeup sex they've just had – until Sookie is floored by the sudden realization that Jessica is in the house and probably heard every sound they just made. Their conversation shifts to dealing with the difficult young vampire, and Sookie – empathizing with the teenage outsider – thinks they should go easier on her. Bill, however, warns that she's too dangerous; her barely controlled impulses couldn't be further from human.

Soundtrack:

SCRATCHES

Synopsis:

Bill, behind the wheel of Sookie's car, speeds back toward Bon Temps with his girlfriend and Jessica. Sookie begs him to slow down, so he skids to a halt at the side of the road, furious at the women for endangering Jessica's family. Sookie apologizes repeatedly, but Bill admonishes her, demanding that she grow up. Hurt and angry, Sookie springs from the car, vowing to walk all night before she spends another moment with him.

Her 20-mile hike back to town is cut short at a few hundred feet, though. After rounding a bend, Sookie becomes aware of something in the darkness. No sooner can she make out its shape – something humanoid with the head of a bull – than the creature is upon her, shredding her back viciously with its talons. Bill bolts from the darkness at superhuman speed, and though he manages to scare off Sookie's attacker, the damage is done. He tries to feed Sookie his blood to heal her, but she chokes after the first swallow, spitting up mouthfuls of white foam.

Soundtrack:

SHAKE AND FINGERPOP

Synopsis:

At the Light of Day Institute, Jason walks down an unlit path on the way to his bunk house. Upon arriving, he finds the door ajar, and after creeping inside, he's horrified to find his roommates scattered about the room, covered in blood. Before he can react, a dark figure sneaks up behind Jason and grabs him, subduing him before biting viciously into his throat … but there's no blood, only hysterical laughter as the lights come on and his "dead” friends stand up and mock him. When the attacker reveals himself as Luke, at first Jason plays it cool, but then he punches Luke in the face, breaking his nose. "Vampires are not a joke,” Jason yells at everyone in the room. "There's a war going on!” The others look at him, intimidated.

Bill glowers in his living room, furious to find Hoyt alone with Jessica. He kicks the young man out of the house, warning him that it's not Jessica he's trying to protect. But Hoyt refuses to believe she'd hurt him – and says as much as he leaves. Hurt and embarrassed, Jessica tells Bill that she wants to take things slow with Hoyt; then she heads upstairs. Sookie is starting to like Jessica – and though she's learned firsthand how dangerous the vampire can be, she thinks Bill should add her to their Dallas trip. Admitting that he's somewhat envious that Jessica doesn't have to feel as cut off from humans as he did early in his vampire life, Bill agrees to bring her along.

Soundtrack:

NEVER LET ME GO

Synopsis:

In the woods behind Sookie's house – where Tara's birthday party continues to rage unabated – Sam tries to play dumb after Daphne reveals that she knows his secret. Amused, she starts to strip down and Sam follows behind picking up the clothing she sheds … until he finds a small doe standing in front of him – a doe that shifts into Daphne before his eyes. Shocked and thrilled, Sam accepts her kiss, but their moment is interrupted when Terry and Arlene, looking for some privacy of their own, stumble awkwardly into the boss and his naked employee. "It's in the air, I guess,” Arlene says.

Sookie chases Barry the bellhop down the hall at Hotel Carmilla, shouting wordlessly for him to stop. Giving in to her mental yelling, the other telepath finally stops to have a conversation. But Sookie's charming introduction and insistence that the two of them can learn from one another isn't enough to edge Barry past his fear that vampires will find out what he's capable of. Begging her to keep his secret, Barry leaves. When she returns to her room – breaking up Bill and Jessica's argument over ordering humans from the room service menu – Sookie brushes away Bill's fear that she doesn't understand the danger she's in. She also points out that their bedroom is perfectly secure, from sunlight as well as intruders, which means Bill can finally sleep with her. In the next room, Jessica experiences a bit of romance herself – chatting with Hoyt endlessly on the phone about TV and comic books.

Soundtrack:

HARD-HEARTED HANNAH

Synopsis:

In the lobby of Hotel Carmilla, Eric feeds on a "blood hooker,” a fang-marked young woman whose "sexy and scared” performance is every bit as desperate as her line of work. Eric, turned off by the farce, casts her aside to greet a visitor … Lorena, the vampire who created Bill. It's clear to Eric that some connection remains between Lorena and her progeny, a connection he hopes will distract Bill enough for Sookie to be pried away. Lorena, skeptical but willing to play along, flashes back to her previous life with Bill … In 1920s Chicago, the pair of them cavort with a rich couple who are throwing a party at their home. Posing as French socialites, Bill plays the piano as Lorena woos the pair, alluding to the fun the four of them could have once the rest of the guests retire for the night. Bill finishes his song to much applause, struts over to the young woman and kisses her hand, sealing the deal.

Upstairs at the hotel, Bill and Sookie lounge in bed but are interrupted by a visit from Isabel and a human named Hugo, whom she introduces by saying, "He is mine.” Hugo has volunteered to join Sookie in infiltrating the Fellowship of the Sun, a favor he's doing for Isabel out of love. Glad to have the backup, Bill and Sookie accept the offer.

Soundtrack:

RELEASE ME

Synopsis:

A drunken Andy Bellefleur stumbles through the woods, still searching for the pig that crossed the road in front of his car. As he tries to get his bearings, he notices drums and strange noises drifting through the trees. He finds their source – the people of Bon Temps, naked and wild, chanting as Maryann prepares to cut out Sam's heart as a sacrifice. Andy fires a gunshot in the air, accidentally providing Sam with enough of a distraction to shift into an owl and escape, but when the detective grabs Terry to get his attention, the veteran twists Andy's arm violently, breaking it with an awful crack. Andy lays on the ground in agony, gazing up into his cousin's black eyes.

In the basement of the Fellowship of the Sun church, Sookie attempts to talk Hugo through an attack of claustrophobia while trying to piece together who could have betrayed them. The Newlins knew they were coming … could Stan be setting them up and eliminating Godric as some sort of power grab?

Soundtrack:

TIMEBOMB

Synopsis:

In the basement of the Fellowship of the Sun church, Godric holds the thug Gabe by his throat as Sookie looks on with a combination of relief and horror. Gabe calls the vampire by name, pleading for his life, but Godric answers by snapping the man's neck. Hearing a crash in an adjacent room, Sookie thinks that Bill has finally arrived to rescue her, but instead Eric sweeps in and kneels at his maker's feet. Godric says he can take care of himself and orders Eric to escort Sookie from the church – without shedding blood in the process.

At Hotel Carmilla, Bill questions Barry about the message he received from Sookie. Lorena, however holds the bellhop in a death grip … and then sinks her fangs into his neck. Taken aback by the man's unique flavor, Lorena falters, asking Barry, "What are you?” Before Barry can speak, Bill slams a plasma TV into the back of Lorena's head. She hits the floor, unconscious, and Bill darts to Jessica's room, where he finds her and Hoyt in the midst of losing their virginity. Shocked, angry and embarrassed, Bill orders Hoyt to take Jessica back to Bon Temps immediately before bolting out the door himself.

Soundtrack:

I WILL RISE UP

Synopsis:

Outside the Dallas vampire lair, Bill sends Lorena away, telling her that she's dead to him. Their farewell is cut short, however, when an explosion erupts behind them – Luke has detonated the bomb strapped to his chest.

Bill races inside, where he scans the bloody tableau, calling Sookie's name. She's alive, shielded by Eric, who urges Bill to chase after the rest of the Soldiers of the Sun before they can escape. Bill catches a young boy, who pleads for his life, but Bill sinks his fangs into the enemy's neck. The vampire doesn't drain him, though; he sends the soldier back to the Fellowship, commanding him to tell his leader that vampires showed him mercy.

Soundtrack:

NEW WORLD IN MY VIEW

Synopsis:

Sookie returns from the roof after Godric's death, shaken but more concerned about Eric, who she finds slumped over the edge of his bed, weeping tears of blood. She comforts him, kissing his face lightly, and when he responds with his own kiss on her lips, she returns it. As they become more passionate, Eric pulls back, his fangs clicking into place. Sookie reaches out, exploring his teeth gingerly with her fingers. Eric gets the message and dives into her throat – But Sookie snaps awake in the back seat of an Anubis Air hearse. It was just a dream … again.

Sitting next to Sookie in the car, Jason knows an erotic fantasy when he sees one and starts to give her a hard time. But they're interrupted when the driver of their transport hits someone in the street of Bon Temps. Jason and Sookie both jump out of the vehicle and into a version of their hometown that's been vandalized almost beyond recognition. The people they ran over – a half-dressed couple – giggle maniacally and limp away.

Soundtrack:

Cast & Crew

Anna Paquin

SOOKIE STACKHOUSE

Character bio:

Sookie never assumed dating a vampire would be a piece of cake, but now twice-orphaned, the telepathic waitress has had her life turned upside down by the supernatural. While her friends and family all struggle with their own demons — sometimes literally — Sookie does her best to navigate the strange new world Bill has introduced her to. Their relationship fills her with equal parts bliss and fear, but the one thing that worries her most is that maybe she's not as horrified as she should be.

Actor bio:

With her work in films and theater, Academy-Award-winning actress Anna Paquin has displayed a range of emotions and a wealth of talent well beyond her years. Anna recently received an Emmy nomination for her portrayal of Elaine Goodale Eastman in HBO's original movie 'Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee,' opposite Adam Beach and Aidan Quinn. Directed by Yves Simoneau and produced by Dick Wolf, the film received a record 17 nominations.

In 2006, Paquin produced 'Blue State' with her brother, Andrew Paquin, under their banner Paquin Films. 'Blue State' is a political romantic comedy about a Democratic campaigner played by Breckin Meyer, who follows through on his promise to move to Canada if George "Dubya" Bush is re-elected. This is the first collaboration between Anna Paquin and her brother. 'Blue State' premiered at the 2007 Tribeca Film Festival.

Next year she will appear in Michael Dougherty's 'Trick 'r Treat,' a thriller about four interwoven stories that occur on Halloween. Produced by Bryan Singer, Warner Bros. will release the film in the fall of 2008.

Paquin has also finished production on Kenneth Lonnergan's 'Margaret,' as the lead, opposite Matt Damon, Mark Ruffalo and Matthew Broderick. Paquin plays Lisa, a girl who witnesses a bus accident and is caught up in the aftermath. 'Margaret' is produced by Scott Rudin and Sydney Pollack and executive-produced by Anthony Minghella and Dan Halsted. Fox Searchlight is set to release the film. In 2006, she reprised her role as Rogue in Brett Ratner's 'X-Men 3.' Twentieth Century Fox released the film worldwide on May 26th 2006, and it grossed over $130 million on opening weekend.

Additional film credits include Noah Baumbach's 'The Squid and The Whale,' winning Best Ensemble Cast at the 2005 IFP Gotham Awards; 'X-Men 2'; Spike Lee's '25th Hour' opposite Edward Norton, Philip Seymour Hoffman and Rosario Dawson; 'Buffalo Soldiers' opposite Joaquin Pheonix and Ed Harris; Gus Van Sant's 'Finding Forester' with F. Murray Abraham and Sean Connery for Columbia Pictures; Cameron Crowe's Academy-Award-winning 'Almost Famous'; 'X-Men' for director Bryan Singer; 'Hurlyburly'; Robert Iscove's 'She's All That'; 'A Walk on the Moon' for Dustin Hoffman's Punch Productions; Keith Stern's 'All the Rage'; Steven Spielberg's 'Amistad'; Carroll Ballard's 'Fly Away Home' with Jeff Daniels; and Franco Zeffirelli's 'Jane Eyre.'

On stage Paquin received a Drama Desk nomination as Best Lead Actress for her stage debut in Rebecca Gilman's 'The Glory of Living' for director Phillip Seymour Hoffman at New York's MCC Theater. She followed that critically acclaimed performance with the first West End production of Kenneth Lonergan's 'This is Our Youth,' co-staring Jake Gyllenhaal and Hayden Christensen in London. Other stage credits include 'After Ashley,' directed by Terry Kinney at The Vineyard Theatre and Neil Labute's dark drama 'The Distance from Here' (Drama Desk Award for "Best Play" and won for "Best Cast Ensemble").

Paquin stunned the world in 1993 with her film debut as the daughter of the bride of an arranged marriage in Jane Campion's 'The Piano.' Paquin's performance opposite cast members Holly Hunter (who won the Academy Award for Best Actress), Sam Neill, and Harvey Keitel led to her winning the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress at the age of 11 years old. Paquin currently spends her time between Los Angeles and New York.

Stephen Moyer

BILL COMPTON

Character bio:

The 173-year-old vampire's return to his ancestral home of Bon Temps has been anything but tranquil. In love with Sookie — and struggling to reconcile their complicated lives — Bill also finds himself warding off threats from a growing cadre of powerful vampires. Throw in the responsibilities of his newly turned fledgling Jessica, and it's almost enough to make Bill yearn for the good old days of lurking in the shadows.

Actor bio:

Stephen Moyer first turned heads when he appeared on the hit series 'The Starter Wife' opposite Debra Messing. The series was recognized by critics and fans alike and was nominated for multiple Emmy, Golden Globe and SAG awards. On the big screen, Moyer appeared in '88 Minutes,' the drama staring Al Pacino and directed by Jon Avnet. He also starred in teen cult classic 'Undiscovered,' the Oscar-nominated film 'Quills' opposite Kate Winslet and Joaquin Phoenix, and 'Prince Valiant' with Katherine Heigl. Moyer's television credits include 'NY-LON' opposite Rashida Jones, 'The Final Quest,' 'Uprising,' 'Entrusted' and the BBC series 'Life Support.' Moyer currently resides in Los Angeles and London.

Sam Trammell

SAM MERLOTTE

Character bio:

Ever since vampires arrived in Bon Temps, manning the local bar has felt a lot more like running an asylum. Amidst the commotion, Sam has yet to come to terms with his own crisis — that he's a shapeshifter living secretly among humans. And as long as he keeps running from his past and hiding the truth from those he's closest to, it will continue to haunt him.

Actor bio:

Sam Trammell studied at Brown University and the University of Paris and has worked in regional theater, on Broadway, off-Broadway and in film and television. Trammell performed at Lincoln Center in 'Ancestral Voices' and in 1998 'Ah, Wilderness,' for which he received a Tony nomination. He also starred in numerous plays on the New York stage including 'Kit Marlowe,' 'If Memory Serves' and 'My Night with Reg.'

Trammell was seen in Joan Chen's 'Autumn in New York,' opposite Richard Gere and Winona Ryder. His independent film credits include 'At the End of the Day,' 'Beat,' and 'Wrestling with Alligators.' On television, Trammell appeared in 'Without Warning,' CBS/Hallmark Hall of Fame's 'Harvest of Fire' and in the series 'Maximum Bob,' 'Trinity' and 'Sullivan Street.' He most recently starred in the Showtime series 'Going to California.

Rutina Wesley

TARA THORNTON

Character bio:

Ever the sharp wit, Tara can tell something is fishy about her new living arrangements with Maryann Forrester and company. But after being kicked out, condemned and disowned by a mother who's done nothing but abuse her, Tara has no intention of hunting down more troubles. Whether her friends in Bon Temps are willing to adopt a similar view is another question entirely.

Actor bio:

Classically trained actress Rutina Wesley always brings a passion and intelligence to her work, whether it is on the stage or behind the camera. She has been likened by some to a young Angela Bassett, an actress with true range who can make an audience both laugh and cry at the same time. Rutina, a native of Las Vegas, made her film debut starring as the lead in the Paramount Vantage/MTV Films 'How She Move,' from British director Ian Rashid and produced by Canada's Sienna Films. She played the lead role of Raya Green, a young girl who returns home to the inner city after the traumatizing death of her sister. She hopes her talent as a step dancer can win her enough money to escape back to the suburban private school life. The film had its world premiere at the Sundance Film Festival (World Competition) and received high praise. In the short amount of time following her graduation from Juillard, Rutina has amassed some high quality credits for her resume. She was a part of the pre-Broadway workshop of the Tony-nominated musical 'The Color Purple' and starred in 'In Darfur' at New York's esteemed Public Theatre. Rutina made her Broadway debut playing a role in the high profile production of 'The Vertical Hour,' by acclaimed playwright David Hare and co-starring two-time Academy Award Nominee Julianne Moore and Bill Nighy. The show was directed by Sam Mendes and produced by Scott Rudin and Robert Fox.

Rutina received her BFA in Theatre Performance from the University of Evansville, and prior to that she attended the Las Vegas Academy of Performing Arts. She also attended the prestigious Juilliard School (Drama Division, Group 34) and spent a summer studying Shakespeare at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art. While in the program, she was able to tackle the role of Juliet in a production of 'Romeo and Juliet' directed by Nona Sheppard. She currently splits her time between Los Angeles and New York.

Nelsan Ellis

LAFAYETTE REYNOLDS

Character bio:

Not your typical short-order grill cook, Lafayette flips his burgers in club clothes and eye makeup. But any good ol' boy customers at Merlotte's who mistake his fashion sense as an invitation for harassment have got another thing coming — Lafayette isn't afraid to throw down. With his many shady sideline businesses and personal connections, Lafayette has plenty to fall back on — or plenty to fall on top of him.

Actor bio:

Nelsan Ellis recently wrapped 'The Soloist' opposite Robert Downey Jr., Jamie Foxx and Catherine Keener. Last year, Ellis completed filming 'The Express' for Universal Pictures. Ellis' television credits include the Fox television series 'The Inside' produced by Brian Grazer and the HBO film 'Warm Springs,' opposite Kenneth Branagh, Cynthia Nixon and Kathy Bates. While studying at Julliard, Ellis wrote a semi-autobiographical play called 'Ugly,' which was not only performed at the school but received the Martin Segal Award by Lincoln Center. Further productions of 'Ugly' were performed at the Fringe Festival, Storm Theatre and the Santa Monica Playhouse. Nelsan Ellis was born in Alabama and later raised in Chicago. He currently resides in Los Angeles.

Michelle Forbes

MARYANN FORRESTER

Character bio:

This mysterious and somewhat sinister stranger turned up as a do-gooder at the local police department. Now with a house full of reformed criminals and a rosy self-improvement vibe, she's quickly becoming a fixture around Bon Temps. Her true identity — and her real reason for showing up in town — remain to be seen.

Actor bio:

Michelle Forbes has been able to bring an intense quality to each and every role she tackles. She is among one of our most prolific actors, currently working on three television series both in the US and Canada.

Forbes made her debut last November in the groundbreaking Alan Ball series for HBO "True Blood," starring as Maryann, a wealthy local who has mysterious intentions. She also returned as Kate Weston in the critically acclaimed HBO series "In Treatment," opposite Gabriel Byrne and Dianne Weist. The show began production on its second season in the fall in New York. Lastly, Forbes is also starring in the dark, award-winning Canadian series "Durham County" which airs on the Movie Network and Movie Central next year. She joins the cast as Dr. Penelope Verrity a forensic psychiatrist who quickly develops a bond with detective Mike Sweeney, played by Hugh Dillon. Forbes began her career in the long-running CBS daytime series "The Guiding Light," which earned her a daytime Emmy nomination. After years of various theatre and television roles, it was in the 90's that Forbes appeared in such independent films as "Kalifornia," starring opposite Brad Pitt and David Duchovny, and "Swimming With Sharks" with Kevin Spacey, to name a few. In 1996, Forbes was asked to join the award-winning series "Homicide: Life On The Street," having met Tom Fontana that same year when she starred opposite Stockard Channing in the television movie "The Prosecutors."

Forbes then went on to do the critically hailed yet controversial and short lived series "Wonderland" for ABC as well as "Johnson County War," an epic western filmed for the Hallmark channel. Terribly fond of working in the UK, her other series credits include a three year stint on the lauded BBC television series "Messiah" opposite Ken Stott, and a recurring role on the BBC1 drama "Walking The Dead." She is also a veteran of the 2nd season of "24," playing Lynn Kresge.

In 2005, Forbes received rave reviews when she starred as Admiral Helena Cain in the intelligent and politically charged "Battlestar Galactica." In addition to her extensive television work, Forbes has continued to appear in such independent films as "Dandelion," which was received admirably at Sundance.

When not working, Forbes makes her home in Los Angeles and London.

Ryan Kwanten

JASON STACKHOUSE

Character bio:

Jason's days as a free-wheeling small town bachelor came to a close when his ex Amy was murdered. Try as he might, his heart's just not in it anymore — or, more accurately, his heart's in it too much. More than anything, he just wants to be a good person, but lately, it doesn't seem anybody can even tell him what that means.

Actor bio:

Nurturing an impressive body of work that encompasses film and television, Ryan Kwanten has positioned himself as one of Hollywood's most promising talents as his career continues to evolve with exciting and challenging projects. Ryan's television credits include the role of Jay Robertson in the critically acclaimed Warner Bros. series 'Summerland,' which ran for two seasons. He was also a lead in the ESPN original movie 'The Junction Boys.'

Segueing effortlessly between the big and small screen, Ryan recently finished working on the Luke Kasdan feature film 'Don't Fade Away' opposite Mischa Barton. His other feature film credits include 'Flicka,' a Twentieth Century Fox film in which he starred opposite Tim McGraw, Maria Bello and Alison Lohman; the title role in 'American Brown,' which received the Audience Award for Best Film at the Montreal Film Festival; 'Liquid Bridge,' nominated for Best Picture at the Australian Film Festival; and the newly released 'Dead Silence' directed by James Wan (writer/director of 'Saw').

A native of Australia, Ryan began his acting career while attending Sydney University, where he earned a degree in business. He starred in numerous feature films and television shows and gained international notoriety when he joined the cast of the long-running Australian series 'Home and Away.' A published writer, Ryan is currently working on a new book. Also an accomplished athlete, Ryan qualified for the world Biathlon in Sweden in 2006 and Italy 2007 after winning the LA Biathlon series two years running. He is a qualified yoga instructor and spends his free time bike riding, surfing and completing triathlons. Ryan currently resides in Los Angeles.

Chris Bauer

DETECTIVE ANDY BELLEFLEUR

Character bio:

Born into the faded lineage of Bon Temps gentry, Andy is aware that working as a police officer doesn't help his standing in the town that already distrusts him. Then again, his personality doesn't do him any favors either; he makes a habit of pushing people farther than he needs to and doesn't mind using his authority to settle scores with the locals.

Actor bio:

A native of Los Angeles, Chris Bauer honed his skills on the stage in Chicago performing with such noted ensembles as the Steppenwolf Theatre Company, as well as the famed Goodman Theatre there. Bauer went on to study at the Yale School of Drama and then moved to New York, where he became a member of the Atlantic Theatre Company founded by David Mamet. He returned to the Chicago stage and gained notice for his performance in Steppenwolf's production of 'Clockwork Orange,' which Bauer credits as a watershed moment in his career. He went on to appear in the Atlantic's productions of 'Mojo,' 'Hothouse' and 'The Night Heron.' He made his Broadway debut as Mitch in 'A Streetcar Named Desire' opposite Natasha Richardson, and he most recently appeared in John Patrick Shanley's 'Defiance' at the Manhattan Theatre Club.

Bauer's first feature film role in 'Snow White' was opposite Sigourney Weaver. Other film credits include 'Face Off,' 'Devil's Advocate,' 'Flawless,' '8mm,' 'Animal Factory,' 'High Fidelity,' 'Broken Flowers' and 'Flags Of Our Fathers,' directed by Clint Eastwood.

Chris Bauer appeared as Frank Sobotka in a critically acclaimed performance during season two of HBO's 'The Wire.' His other work for HBO includes co-starring roles in '61*,' and 'The Nororious Bettie Page' for HBO Films. He also recently appeared in the television movies 'The Lost Room' for Sci-Fi Channel, and 'Our Fathers' for Showtime. Chris played Fred Yokas for five years on NBC's 'Third Watch' and was a series regular on 'Tilt' and John Wells' 'Smith.' He has also appeared in a number of guest star roles in 'New Amsterdam,' 'Numb3rs,' 'CSI' and 'Criminal Minds.'

Mehcad Brooks

EGGS (BENEDICT TALLEY)

Character bio:

A beneficiary of Maryann's hospitality, Eggs exchanged a dangerous and crime-ridden past for the security of lounging poolside at her house. It's unclear — especially to Tara — how long he's been in Maryann's circle and exactly what their relationship has involved.

Actor bio:

Mehcad Brooks as Eggs

Television: True Blood, Dollhouse, The Game, K-Ville, Ghost Whisperer, Desperate Housewives, Cold Case, Boston Public, One on One

Film: Fencewalker, Fly Like Mercury, In the Valley of Elah, Glory Road, Tiger Cruise

Deborah Ann Woll

JESSICA HAMBY

Character bio:

When Bill was forced to turn Jessica into a vampire as punishment for killing one of his own kind, he was devastated by corrupting a young life. But being stuck with the perpetual teenager for eternity inspires a different kind of regret. Petulant, emotional and immature, Jessica makes sure that none of her growing pains go unshared.

Actor bio:

Deborah Ann Woll as Jessica Hamby

Television: True Blood, The Mentalist, My Name Is Earl, CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, ER, Life

Film: Aces 'N' Eights

Michael McMillian

STEVE NEWLIN

Character bio:

The new face of the anti-vampire movement, Steve knows not only how to work crowds into a frenzy, but also put the American media machine to work for him. Forced to take the reins of the Fellowship of the Sun after his father was killed in a suspicious car accident, Steve has no intention of letting a bunch of bloodsucking monsters nudge humanity out of the picture.

Actor bio:

Michael McMillian as Steve Newlin

Television: Rockville CA, True Blood, Scrubs, Saved, Big Love, Without a Trace, What I Like About You, Veronica Mars, Miracles, Firefly,

Film: Glock, Dimples, Small Town News, The Hills Have Eyes II, SWAT 4: The Stetchkov Syndicate, Marsha Potter Gets a Life, Fight Club, Men of Valor, Dorian Blues

Anna Camp

SARAH NEWLIN

Character bio:

Sarah knows that a Godly woman stands behind her man — especially when he's leading humanity's fight against creatures of darkness. Still, it's not always easy playing second fiddle to the Lord's work.

Actor bio:

Anna Camp recently starred opposite Daniel Radcliffe in the critically acclaimed revival of Equus on Broadway. She also appeared on Broadway in "The Country Girl” directed by Mike Nichols with Frances McDormand and Morgan Freeman. Anna was nominated for a Lucille Lortell award for her incredible turn in Second Stage Theater's "The Scene" opposite Tony Shaloub and Patricia Heaton. " Film and Television credits includes "Pretty Bird" (2008 Sundance Film Festival Selection), "And then Came Love”, and ABC's "The Cashmere Mafia." Other New York theater work includes "columbinus" at New York Theatre Workshop, "Flesh and the Desert" at Playwright's Horizons, and "God Hates the Irish" at Rattlestick Theatre. Regionally, she performed in "The Scene" at The Actor's Theatre of Louisville (Humana Festival), "Hay Fever" at Baltimore Center Stage, and "The Importance of Being Earnest" at Dallas Theatre Center. Anna graduated with a BFA in theatre from North Carolina School of the Arts.

Mariana Klaveno

LORENA

Character bio:

Lorena gave Bill the "gift" of eternal life almost two centuries ago, and though they parted ways quite a while ago, she still manages to maintain some type of hold over him.

Actor bio:

Mariana Klaveno grew up in a rural area of Washington State on the family owned and operated farm with her three older siblings. After graduating valedictorian of her high school class, she pursued her B.A. in Theatre at the University of Washington in Seattle. She trained there with John Jory, erstwhile Artistic Director of Actor's Theatre of Louisville. After graduating with honors, Mariana moved to Los Angeles and continued her training with noted acting coach, Cameron Thor.

After a chance meeting with acclaimed Producer/Director J. J. Abrams, he cast Mariana in "Alias", her network television debut. However, it wasn't until her standout guest performance as a modern day Bonnie Parker on 'Standoff' opposite Ron Livingston and Rosemarie DeWitt that people really began to stop and take notice. Guest star roles followed on 'ER', 'K-Ville', and 'Laws of Chance'. She also recently starred in the television movies 'Final Approach' and 'While the Children Sleep'. Mariana currently resides in Los Angeles.

Ashley Jones

DAPHNE

Character bio:

A local from a few towns over, Daphne is the latest addition to the Merlotte's staff. She's either lied about her waitressing experience or casual dining training ain't what it used to be — in any case, Sam's just glad to have an extra pair of hands around the place.

Actor bio:

At such a young age, Ashley Jones already has an extensive career in film, television and theater. Since filming her first national commercial at the age of five, Ashley has already accomplished what some couldn't in a lifetime, including two Daytime Emmy nominations. Ashley currently intrigues audiences in the role of 'Bridget Forrester' on the number one show in the world, CBS's "The Bold and the Beautiful."

Ashley guest stars in 9 episodes of HBOs 'True Blood" which will begin airing its exciting new second season on June 14th. She also had a guest role on TNT's "True Lies," which aired on February 9th.

Lifetime Network broadcast two of Ashley's films in May 2008. She stared in "A Teacher's Crime," as 'Carrie,' an attractive high-school teacher who discovers it is no easy task. She was one of the Executive Producers and had a small role as 'Becca' in the edgy suspense thriller, "Dead at Seventeen" both are produced by Lance Entertainment.

Ashley guest stared on "CSI: New York." The episode "Heart of Glass" showcased Ashley's fine dramatic flare. She said of her role as 'Kennedy Gable,' "She is the antithesis of 'Bridget' and was challenging role to play as an actor. I was thrilled to be working with such talented actors and wonderful crew. It was an honor to be on this critically acclaimed show."

Ashley was selected by Country Music Television as one of the "20 Sexiest Southern Belles" and was featured in Houston Magazine's, "The Lust List, 50 People, Places & Things That Make Houston Sweat!," June issue 2006. Her role as the beautiful and sexy 'Bridget Forrester' on "The Bold and the Beautiful," garnered her Australia's 2006 Boomerang Award for Best Younger Actress.

Ashley's career began in her hometown of Memphis, Tennessee. Like most child actors, she started out as the cute kid in national commercials. But unlike the typical child actor, by the age of nine she was beginning to have a keen interest in theater. When her father took a job as a minister in Texas, the family picked up and moved to Houston. At that point, Ashley became a part of the Actors Theater in Houston and performed in critically acclaimed productions written by noted playwrights Neil Simon, Enid Bagnold, and Claire Boothe Loose. As early as the age of twelve, she was receiving rave reviews for her performance in Bagnold's "The Chalk Garden."

She attended the Houston High School for the Performing Arts, whose famous alumni include Beyonce Knowles and Chandra Wilson of ABC's "Grey's Anatomy."

Theater was a magical experience for Ashley, and would continue to be for years to come, but her dream was to be able to be in television and film. At the age of fifteen, her career blossomed when she won the role of 'Ingrid' in "Dr. Quinn, Medicine Women."

That same year Ashley secured a role in the TV mini-series "A Fire Next Time. Her television credits include that of mild-mannered 'Megan' on "Young and the Restless," "Crossing Jordan," "The District," "Without a Trace," "7th Heaven," "For the People," and "Strong Medicine."

Her more notable film credits are 2003's blockbuster, "Old School," and 2004's comedy "Extreme Dating." In 2003, Ashley returned to the stage in Kara Holden's comedy, "Writer's Block," and 2005's off-Broadway show, "Vanities."

In April 2005, she participated in a successful fashion show that benefited the City of Hope; a cancer research center dedicated to finding cures. Ashley helped run the Malibu Volunteer Center during her college years and her interest in volunteer work never subsided. She also participates with PS Arts, a charity dedicated to bringing the arts to inner-city children.

In her free time she enjoys going hiking, writing, and recently resumed her childhood passion for playing the violin. Ashley received her B.A. from Pepperdine University while simultaneously playing the role of 'Megan Dennison' on "Young and the Restless," and filming several television movies.

Carrie Preston

ARLENE FOWLER

Character bio:

Divorced with kids at home, Arlene is pushing into her forties and in complete denial about it. Her last boyfriend, Rene Lenier, turned out to be a crazed serial killer, which hasn't helped her odds of finding a father for her children while hustling burgers to the crowd at Merlotte's.

Actor bio:

Carrie Preston's breakout role as Miranda on the Broadway production of Shakespeare's 'The Tempest' led to roles in major television series such as 'Lost' and 'Desperate Housewives,' along with acclaimed 2008 films such as Woody Allen's 'Vicky Cristina Barcelona,' the Oscar-nominated 'Transamerica' and the Daisy 3 Pictures (her production company) film 'Ready? Ok!'

Born and raised in Macon, Georgia, where her mother was an artist and art therapist while her dad was a geo-technical engineer, Carrie discovered her true calling in life lay in performing arts. At the age of 12 she became the impresario of her own front-yard theater company as producer, writer, casting director, costumer, director - and of course, actress. Preston later obtained a Bachelor's degree from the University of Evansville followed with an acting diploma from the prestigious Juilliard School.

Her first big break aft Julliard came when she starred as Miranda in the Broadway production of Shakespeare's 'The Tempest,' opposite Patrick Stewart. She soon ventured to Los Angeles to appear in such feature films as 'My Best Friend's Wedding' (as a sassy Southern bridesmaid to star Cameron Diaz) and 'Mercury Rising' (starring Bruce Willis and Alec Baldwin). She also appeared as Idalyn Greaves in the Robert Redford directed film 'The Legend Of Bagger Vance' with Will Smith and Charlize Theron. She played Barbara in 'The Stepford Wives' with Nicole Kidman and also appeared in 'Lovely By Surprise.' Next, Preston takes on the part of Ludie Choat, wife of a redneck patriarch who together have made their lives on leased farmland, but when the farm's estranged owner unexpectedly returns after many years, conflict arises as each believes they have the right to the land in the Southern dramatic film 'I Hate To See That Evening Sun Go Down.' She stars alongside Hal Holbrook who is the farm's stubborn and original owner, Abner Meecham, and Ray McKinnon as Lonzo Choat, the current inhabitant and husband of Ludie.

With her original roots in theatre, Preston completed a starring role as Honey in 'Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?' at the Guthrie Theatre in Minneapolis (again with Patrick Stewart and Mercedes Ruehl) and in 'Chaucer in Rome' at New York's Lincoln Center. She rates her roles in 'My Best Friend's Wedding' and in 'Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?' as two of her favorites to date. Preston's other stage credits include 'Antony & Cleopatra' with Vanessa Redgrave, 'She Stoops to Conquer,' and 'Hamlet.'

After forming the production company Daisy 3 Pictures with Mark Holmes and James Vasquez, Preston directed the films '29th And Gay,' 'Feet of Clay" and 2008's 'Ready? Ok!' which won Best US Feature, Best Actress (Carrie Preston) and Outstanding Emerging Talent (James Vasquez).

A crucial role playing Ophelia in 'Hamlet' 12 years ago at the Alabama Shakespeare Festival is where Preston met her husband, Emmy Award winning Michael Emerson, who was playing Guildenstern in the production. Since then, the two have both starred in the movies 'Straight Jacket,' 'Grace & Glori,' and 'The Journey.' In 2005, they both appeared in a production of 'Hamlet' at the McCarter Theatre Center in Princeton, NJ. The husband and wife team recently appeared together on ABC's Emmy winning series 'Lost.' Preston took on the role of Emerson's character, Ben's, mother in a series of flashbacks throughout the episodes. Preston has also guest starred on 'Arrested Development,' 'Sex and the City,' 'Spin City,' 'Hope and Faith,' 'Numb3rs,' and 'Law and Order: Criminal Intent.'

Preston splits her residency between Los Angeles, New York and Hawaii to best accommodate her and her husband's shooting schedules. When not working, Carrie enjoys writing prose as well as hiking, jogging, yoga and almost anything outdoors. She also maintains an extensive music collection, including many vintage vinyl records.

Todd Lowe

TERRY BELLEFLEUR

Character bio:

This scruffy short-order cook at Merlotte's brought a lot more home from his tour in Iraq than just a sand-filled duffel. Some days his PTSD acts up so bad he can barely hold a spatula. His cousin Andy used to help keep him grounded, but ever since dead bodies became a staple in Bon Temps, the detective's soothing influence has evaporated.

Actor bio:

Television: True Blood, Without A Trace, Gilmore Girls, Silverlake, Happy Family, Trash, The 70's

Film: Redline, The Princess Diaries, Where The Heart Is, A Texas Funeral

Theater: ''The Beard Of Avon,'' ''The Beginning Of August,'' ''Wife Swappers,'' ''Zombie Attack,'' ''Tombacco Road,'' ''Happy Days, The Muscial,'' ''King Lear,'' ''Love's Labours Lost''

Jim Parrack

HOYT FORTENBERRY

Character bio:

One of Jason's buddies, Hoyt used to be happy just swilling back beers after a day working on the road crew. The string of murders in town — and Rene's role in them — has had a sobering effect on Hoyt, though, and with carousing taken off the menu, he's hoping to just meet the right girl. If his small town and overbearing mother don't kill his chances.

Actor bio:

Jim Parrack made his professional acting debut in 2006's 'Annapolis' as A.J. His portrayal of the rough and tumble, blue collar boxer led to a series of guest spots on television shows including 'Gray's Anatomy,' 'CSI,' 'ER,' 'Monk,' 'Standoff' and 'Close to Home.' In 2007 he showed audiences his depth and range in two consecutive guest-starring roles. First on 'Criminal Minds,' he played a deranged serial killer who hunted people in the wild with a bow and arrow, followed immediately by a sensitive look at a Colorado Sheriff's Deputy who has lost his mother on 'Raines' alongside Jeff Goldblum.

Jim grew up in the small Texas town of Allen. He moved to Los Angeles and studied acting for two years at The Stella Adler Academy. But it wasn't until studying under Robert Carnegie at Playhouse West that he began to find fulfillment and opportunity in his acting. A veteran of more than 20 plays in just seven years in Los Angeles, he is a current student at Playhouse West and can be seen there monthly in the critically acclaimed play 'Welcome Home Soldier.'

William Sanderson

SHERIFF BUD DEARBORNE

Character bio:

Widely respected in a town where many residents remember him as a childhood authority figure, Bud tries to do right by everyone as much as possible. He doesn't understand people's sudden fascination with vampires, however, and his job was a lot easier before the creatures started showing up.

Actor bio:

Early in his career William Sanderson seemed practically to specialize in his unique brand of what he calls "prairie scum." All that changed with two inspired castings that would reveal William's versatility and bring him national exposure. Director Ridley Scott cast him as the brilliant, gentle toy maker in the now classic science fiction film 'Blade Runner.' Shortly afterwards, a one-time guest role became a successful eight-year run with William's comedic talent on display as the quirky backwoodsman Larry in the popular sitcom 'Newhart.'

William grew up in Memphis, TN, with an elementary school teacher mother and a landscape designer father. As a youngster he already had a knack for assuming characters and used this talent to sneak into concerts and sporting events, and eventually into Graceland where he listened to his hero Elvis play a piano ballad. William spent two years in the Army, after which he attended Southern Methodist University and later earned a BBA degree and JD law degree from the University of Memphis. He opted out of the bar exam and instead went to New York to take his shot at acting. There he apprenticed with the renowned Herbert Berghof and William Hickey, quickly distinguishing himself in a number of off-Broadway productions and independent film roles. He soon set his sights on Hollywood.

William has played a host of distinct and diverse roles, routinely working opposite Hollywood's A-list talent. The 80s saw him in films like 'The Onion Field,' 'Lone Wolf Mcquade,' 'Coal Miner's Daughter,' and 'City Heat.' In the 90s his body of work grew in a broad range of features including 'Death Hunt,' 'The Rocketeer,' 'Wagon's East' (John Candy's final film), John Grisham's 'The Client' (which brought him home to Memphis), 'Last Man Standing' with Bruce Willis and more. In 'Stanley's Gig,' William revealed what was no surprise to those in the know - that he can just as easily carry the mantle of leading actor - with his poignant portrayal of the title character opposite Faye Dunaway. His recent film projects include the family film 'Treasure Of Painted Forest,' 'Disappearances' opposite Kris Kristofferson, and the dramedy 'Pretty Ugly People.'

William has consistently and deftly moved between film and television, appearing in such shows as 'ER,' 'Life,' 'The X-Files,' 'Monk' and 'Without a Trace.' His television movies and mini-series include the award-winning 'Lonesome Dove' and its sequel, 'Executioner's Song,' with Tommy Lee Jones; two MOW'S with John Frankenheimer, 'Wallace' and the Civil War epic 'Andersonville'; Stephen King's 'Sometimes They Come Back'; 'Babylon 5: Thirdspace'; Louis L'Amour's 'Crossfire Trail'; and 'Monte Walsh' with Tom Selleck.

Sharing the honor of American Film Institute's "Best Ensemble" award for 'Deadwood,' William was equally thrilled at being named one of Cracked Magazine's "15 Funniest People Of 2006," which cited his "comedic edge" in the series as "well worth an hour." Beloved by fans of fantasy & sci-fi, Westerns and comedies alike, William has a rare following that crosses generations and genres.

In between film and television work, William stays busy supplying the voice for numerous cartoon characters, radio commercials and books on tape. He and his wife split their time between homes in Burbank, CA and Harrisburg, PA.

Alexander Skarsgård

ERIC NORTHMAN

Character bio:

An old and powerful Nordic vampire, Eric's cold will commands as much respect as his impressive stature. His expert political scheming and general disdain for human life won't win Eric any friends, but despite his cold manipulations, there's something undeniably attractive about him.

Actor bio:

Film: Metropia, Beyond the Pole, The Burrowers, Jarnets Anglar, Leende Guldbruna Ogon, Exit, Cuppen, Kill Your Darlings, Never Be Mine, Om Sara, The Last Drop, Som Man Baddar, Hjartslag, Hundtricket, Zoolander, Drakarna Over Helsingfors, Vingar Av Glas, Jarnganget, Dykaren, Hundtricket

TV: Generation Kill, D-dag, Revelations, Judith, Happy End

Executive Producer

ALAN BALL

Character bio:

Actor bio:

Alan Ball is an Academy Award and Emmy Award winning writer and director. He is currently working on his new HBO series, "True Blood," which he directed and adapted from the novel Dead Until Dark by Charlaine Harris. "True Blood" stars Anna Paquin as Sookie Stackhouse, a telepathic waitress in rural Louisiana. The series also features Stephen Moyer, Ryan Kwanten and Lois Smith. Ball is the Executive Producer and Creator of the series "Towelhead" is his feature film directorial debut, based on his screenplay adaptation of the novel Towelhead by Alicia Erian. The film stars Aaron Eckhart, Maria Bello, Toni Collette, Peter Macdissi and newcomer Summer Bishil.

In January 2007 Ball's play "All That I Will Ever Be" premiered at the New York Theatre Workshop - his first return to theater in over a decade.

Ball was the creator and Executive Producer of "Six Feet Under," the critically acclaimed drama series on HBO. The series garnered many awards including three Golden Globes (including Best Drama Series), seven Emmy awards and a George Foster Peabody Award. Alan was awarded an Emmy and a DGA award for directing the pilot of "Six Feet Under", his directorial debut.

Alan's first produced feature film screenplay was "American Beauty," for which he received the 1999 Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay, the Writers Guild of America award for Best Original Screenplay, and the Golden Globe award for Best Screenplay, among others.

His other television credits include "Oh Grow Up", "Cybill" and "Grace Under Fire."

Prior to moving to Hollywood, he was a noted comedic playwright in New York. Among his numerous credits are "Five Women Wearing the Same Dress," which premiered February 1993 at Manhattan Class Company, starring Thomas Gibson, Ally Walker and Allison Janney; 'The M Word," which premiered at the inaugural Lucille Ball Festival of New American Comedy in 1991; "Made For a Woman;" "Bachelor Holiday;" "The Amazing Adventures of Tense Guy;" and "Your Mother's Butt." He was one of the founding members of Alarm Dog Rep.

Born in Atlanta, Ball was raised in Marietta, Georgia. He attended Florida State University, where he majored in theater, with an emphasis in acting and playwriting. After college, he moved to New York, where he first worked as an art director for various trade publications.

Videos

Extras

GAMES

COMMUNITY