Complete Cast and Character Guide for The Purge: Election Year

The Purge: Election Year stands out as a prominent entry within the horror genre of 2016, featuring an engaging ensemble cast that revitalizes the enduring dystopian series. Launched in 2013, the Purge franchise fuses elements of horror, action, and subtle political commentary, making it both thrilling and thought-provoking. As the third installment, Election Year is often praised for deepening the series’ narrative, focusing on the perspectives of the ruling elite regarding the infamous Purge night. Released against the backdrop of a real-world election, the film boldly engages with contemporary themes reflective of American society.

Although set in 2040, Election Year represents a significant chronological leap from the original film, marking an era of political turmoil decades after the first Purge was enacted. The annual event has evolved into a pivotal political issue, influencing the fictional electoral landscape depicted in the film. This sequel not only reintroduces beloved characters—most notably Frank Grillo reprising his role—but also introduces new actors to the franchise, sparking fresh dynamics for audiences. James DeMonaco returns to helm the project as both writer and director, ensuring continuity in the franchise’s vision.

Frank Grillo as Leo Barnes

Born June 8, 1965

Active Since: 1992

Actor: Frank Grillo has established himself in the world of film and television since his debut in 1992’s The Mambo Kings. With a strong foundation in martial arts, Grillo has cultivated a niche within action-oriented roles across various features, including the Purge series, Zero Dark Thirty, and Minority Report. Additionally, he’s had iconic villainous roles in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, portraying Brock Rumlow, aka Crossbones, and is set to star as Rick Flag Sr.in the DC Universe.

Notable Movies and TV Shows:

Movie/TV Show	Year	Character
The Shield	2002	Officer Paul Jackson
Kingdom	2014	Alvey Kulina
The Purge: Anarchy	2014	Sgt. Leo Barnes
Captain America: Civil War	2016	Brock Rumlow / Crossbones
Tulsa King	2024	Bill Bevilaqua

Character: Leo Barnes serves as the protagonist in both The Purge: Anarchy and The Purge: Election Year, transitioning from an LAPD sergeant to the head of security for presidential candidate Charlie Roan.

Elizabeth Mitchell as Senator Charlie Roan

Born March 27, 1970

Active Since: 1992

Actor: Elizabeth Mitchell, known for her Emmy-nominated portrayal of Juliet in Lost, has enjoyed a successful career in television and film, with significant roles that followed her breakout. Her versatile performances span across shows like ER, Once Upon a Time, The Expanse, and Outer Banks, alongside participating in Tim Allen’s The Santa Clauses.

Notable Movies and TV Shows:

Movie/TV Show	Year	Character
The Santa Clause 2	2002	Carol Newman / Mrs. Claus
Lost	2006-2010	Juliet Burke
Outer Banks	2021-2023	Carla Limbrey
The Expanse	2018, 2021	Anna Volovodov

Character: Senator Charlie Roan represents a bold presidential candidate who takes a staunch position against the Purge, embodying the resistance against the cycle of violence.

Betty Gabriel as Laney Rucker

Born January 6, 1981

Active Since: 2004

Actor: Betty Gabriel has emerged as a prominent figure in the horror genre, most recognized for her compelling performances in films such as The Purge: Election Year and Get Out. Following minor roles early in her film career, Gabriel found her breakthrough with her role in The Purge, which opened doors to influential television productions including Westworld and The Twilight Zone. She is set to appear in the upcoming film Novocaine alongside Jack Quaid.

Notable Movies and TV Shows:

Movie/TV Show	Year	Character
Get Out	2017	Georgina
Westworld	2018	Wrong
Jack Ryan	2022-2023	Elizabeth Wright

Character: Laney Rucker is characterized as an EMT and a former purger who aligns herself with Leo’s team during the harrowing Purge night.

Mykelti Williamson as Joe Dixon

Born March 4, 1957

Active Since: 1978

Actor: Mykelti Williamson, recognized for his iconic role as Bubba Blue in the Oscar-winning film Forrest Gump, has maintained a presence in the entertainment industry since the late ’70s. His filmography is diverse, featuring notable appearances in classics like Heat, Con Air, and Fences. In 2024, he guest-starred in the Prime Video series Fallout, alongside numerous roles in significant network dramas such as Hawaii Five-0 and Chicago P. D..

Notable Movies and TV Shows:

Movie/TV Show	Year	Character
Free Willy	1993	Dwight Mercer
Forrest Gump	1994	Benjamin Buford “Bubba”Blue
Heat	1995	Sergeant Drucker
Air	1997	Baby-O

Character: Joe Dixon plays a bodega owner who becomes a crucial ally to Leo’s team during the tension-filled Purge night.

The Purge: Election Year Supporting Cast & Characters

Terry Serpico as Earl Danzinger: An accomplished actor, Terry Serpico has appeared in a variety of films and series since the ’90s, showcasing his versatility in productions like Donnie Brasco and The Departed.

Edwin Hodge as Dante Bishop: Edwin Hodge is known for his role as the Bloody Stranger, Dante Bishop, across the first three films of the Purge series, solidifying his place in the franchise’s lore.

Kyle Secor as Minister Edwidge Owens: With a career spanning several decades, Kyle Secor has featured in various films and series, including The Flash and American Horror Story.

Joseph Julian Soria: An emerging talent, Joseph Julian Soria has gained recognition for his performances in the Lifetime hit series Army Wives and films like Fast & Furious.

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