Heidi Holland

Heidi Holland is the protagonist around whom The Heidi Chronicles revolves, portrayed from adolescence through middle age, across the 1960s to the 1980s. As an adult, she is a distinguished art historian and essayist teaching at Columbia University. Her educational journey begins at Miss Crain’s School in Chicago during the mid-1960s, continues with an undergraduate degree from Vassar, and culminates in the art history graduate program at Yale in the early 1970s. Heidi's professional life is dedicated to advocating for greater recognition of female artists. Her activism includes participating in protests at the Art Institute of Chicago in 1974, authoring the book And the Light Floods in from the Left in the late 1970s, leading the Women’s Art group in 1982, and curating an exhibition on Lila Cabot Perry in 1984.

Despite her professional successes, Heidi often feels like an observer in her own life, grappling with disillusionment concerning her place in society, the women's movement, and her quest for personal happiness. By 1986, Heidi experiences a sense of isolation and dissatisfaction with societal norms that stifle individual potential. Her profound friendships with Peter Patrone and Susan Johnston, along with her intricate relationship with Scoop Rosenbaum, are central to her story. In 1988, seeking fulfillment and a nurturing environment for the next generation, she adopts a Panamanian infant named Judy, hoping to offer her a supportive upbringing.

Scoop Rosenbaum

Scoop Rosenbaum is an influential and self-assured figure in Heidi's life, first encountered at a 1967 Eugene McCarthy fundraiser in New Hampshire. An Exeter graduate and Princeton dropout, Scoop is known for his tendency to grade everything from food to people. Professionally, he serves as editor in chief of The Liberated Earth News and later becomes the prominent editor of Boomer magazine, catering to the Baby Boomer demographic. His relationship with Heidi is marked by both mutual attraction and tension, as his arrogant demeanor both draws and repels her.

During his tenure as a Yale law student in 1970 and later as a Supreme Court clerk in 1974, Scoop shares a sexual relationship with Heidi but opts to marry Lisa Friedlander, whom he views as less competitive. His marriage does not curb his infidelities, including an affair with a graphics assistant in 1980. By 1982, Scoop and Lisa have two children, Maggie and Pierre. Despite growing estrangement from Heidi during the 1980s, he reaches out to her in 1988 as he embarks on a congressional campaign, marking another chapter in his pursuit of power. His sale of Boomer highlights his enduring quest for influence.

Peter Patrone

Peter Patrone stands out as one of Heidi's closest confidants, characterized by his sharp wit and sardonic outlook. Their friendship begins at a high school dance where Peter is intrigued by Heidi's apparent disinterest. Open about his sexuality, Peter reveals his relationship with fellow doctor Stanley Zinc and pursues a successful career in medicine. By 1982, he is recognized as "The Best Pediatrician in New York Under Forty" and becomes chief of pediatrics at New York Hospital. His commitment to addressing the AIDS crisis leads him to establish a specialized unit for children affected by the disease.

Peter's friendship with Heidi remains steadfast despite occasional disagreements. He plays a pivotal role in supporting her adoption of Judy and persuades her to remain in New York City amid the personal and professional challenges each faces. His dedication to his patients and to Heidi exemplifies his compassionate nature.

Susan Johnston

Susan Johnston, a high school friend of Heidi, is known for her volatile career path and evolving political views. Initially characterized by her boy-craziness, Susan's...