Defending Jacob: Full list of cast in the miniseries

Defending Jacob is a crime drama series that ran from April 24 to May 29, 2020, on Apple TV. Later in June 2021, Paramount Home Entertainment debuted the show on Blu-ray and DVD.

The series is inspired by a book with the same title by author William Landay. It is written by Mark Bomback and directed by Morten Tyldum. The show features Chris Evans, Michelle Dockery, and Jaeden Martell, along with many other familiar faces.

The plot revolves around a lawyer whose son Jacob is suspected of killing his classmate. The allegation causes emotional and social disturbance for the family leading them to question Jacob if he is actually innocent. Defending Jacob examines emotions like guilt, devotion, and the extent to which parents can go to keep their children safe.

Defending Jacob: Full list of cast explored

1) Chris Evans as Andrew "Andy" Stephen Barber

In the TV show Defending Jacob, Chris Evans portrays Andrew Steven Barber. Barber is a father whose life becomes extremely challenging as his teenage son is accused of killing someone. Evans captures Barber's inner struggle and defends his family in the face of a difficult court case.

Chris Evans has worked previously in the Marvel films since Captain America: The First Avenger in 2011 and Avengers: Endgame in 2019.

2) Michelle Dockery as Laurie Barber

Michelle Dockery essays the role of Andy's wife, Laurie Barber, in Defending Jacob. The startling accusation that her son is a murderer and the revelation of unspoken details about her husband's background cause Laurie to struggle. Michelle Dockery portrays Laurie’s emotional struggle and strength amidst the family’s troubles in Defending Jacob.

Dockery is known for her role as Lady Mary Crawley in the ITV drama series Downton Abbey (2010–2015). This role earned her three Primetime Emmy nominations and a Golden Globe nomination. She also played Lady Mary in the 2019 movie Downton Abbey and its 2022 sequel, A New Era.

3) Jaeden Martell as Jacob Jake Barber

Jaeden Martell (Image via Youtube / Apple TV)

Jaeden Martell takes on the role of Jacob Barber, who is accused of murder. As a 14-year-old boy suspected of killing his classmate, Martell's acting shows the many layers of Jacob's feelings and the stress on his family. His performance goes deep into the mind of a teenager dealing with serious accusations, making Defending Jacob more tense and meaningful.

Jaeden Martell is best recognized for his role as Bill Denbrough in the IT movie franchise and for being part of Knives Out (2019).

4) Cherry Jones as Joanna Klein

Cherry Jones (Image via Television Academy)

In Defending Jacob, Cherry Jones plays a defense lawyer named Joanna Klein with great effect. The veteran actress has worked in TV series, films, and theater. She won Tony Awards for Best Actress for her roles in Doubt (2005) and The Heiress (1995).

She is known for playing Barbara Layton in The West Wing and President Allison Taylor in 24, which earned her an Emmy award. She also appeared in The Village (2004), Erin Brockovich (2000), and The Eyes of Tammy Faye (2021).

5) Pablo Schreiber as Neal Logiudice

Pablo Schreiber (Image via Paramount Plus, officialpabloschreiber/ Instagram)

Pablo Schreiber plays an assistant district attorney, Neal Logiudice. He has been a part of TV series such as Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, Orange Is the New Black, and The Wire.

A few of his roles in movies such as The Manchurian Candidate, 13 Hours: The Secret Soldiers of Benghazi, and Den of Thieves are also appreciated by the viewers. Moreover, Pablo also did theater and won the Drama Desk Award for his performance in Reasons to Be Pretty.

6) Betty Gabriel as Pam Duffy

Betty Gabriel (Image via Youtube / Apple TV)

Betty Gabriel features in the series Defending Jacob as Andy's co-worker, Pam Duffy. Andy relies heavily on Pam's advice and assistance with the inquiry. Betty's acting demonstrates her ability to give her characters a genuine and serious sense.

Betty is known for her horror and thrilling roles like in the film Get Out (2017). She has worked in various other projects including The Purge: Election Year (2016), Upgrade (2018), Good Girls Revolt (2016), and Counterpart (2018–2019).

7) Sakina Jaffrey as Lynn Canavan

Sakina Jaffrey (Image via Television Academy)

Sakina Jaffrey plays a district attorney Lynn Canavan, who looks into the investigation of the student's murder at Jacob's school.

The actress grew up in Manhattan's Greenwich Village. Before getting into acting career, Sakina studied Chinese language and literature at Vassar College. She has acted in several movies, including Masala and The Perfect Murder. Her notable roles include Denise Christopher in Timeless and Linda Vasquez in House of Cards.

Other supporting cast members include: