Submissionis an American erotic thriller television miniseries that aired on Showtime in 2016 and quickly became a topic of discussion for its bold storytelling and unconventional subject matter. The sixepisode series centers on Ashley Pendleton, a woman whose life takes an unexpected turn when she discovers an erotic novel and begins exploring the world of BDSM. Set against modern urban life, the story blends romance, mystery, and personal transformation, supported by a diverse and engaging cast. Each actor brings complexity and nuance to their role, helping to portray characters that are flawed, intriguing, and at times surprising. The cast ofSubmissionplays an essential role in immersing viewers in a narrative that challenges social norms while also delivering drama and emotional depth.
Primary Cast Members
Ashlynn Yennie as Ashley Pendleton
Ashlynn Yennie stars as the protagonist Ashley Pendleton, a young woman who emerges from an unhappy relationship and finds her curiosity piqued by an erotic novel that leads her into the BDSM lifestyle. Yennie’s portrayal captures both vulnerability and empowerment as Ashley navigates unfamiliar emotional and physical terrain. Her performance anchors the series, giving audiences a grounded character with whom they can empathize, even as the narrative explores provocative themes.
Justin Berti as Elliott
Justin Berti appears as Elliott, a BDSM practitioner who works closely with Dylan and becomes captivated by Ashley’s presence. Elliott’s character introduces Ashley to specific practices and dynamics within the BDSM community. Berti’s portrayal adds tension and allure to the storyline, as Elliott embodies both the enigmatic teacher figure and someone whose intentions are sometimes ambivalent. His chemistry with Yennie contributes significantly to the show’s central narrative tension.
Victoria Levine as Jules
Victoria Levine plays Jules, Ashley’s friend who offers support and a place to stay. Jules is a character with her own secrets and motivations, adding depth to the social and emotional world around Ashley. Levine’s performance brings warmth and complexity to the ensemble, portraying a friend who is both supportive and occasionally emotionally complicated herself. Jules helps bridge Ashley’s world with other characters in the narrative, creating avenues for both conflict and collaboration.
Raylin Joy as Dylan Quinn
Raylin Joy portrays Dylan Quinn, Jules’ roommate with a bold personality and a strong presence in the BDSM community. Dylan is instrumental in introducing Ashley to new experiences, inviting her to book clubs and social circles that expand her horizons. Joy’s interpretation presents a character who is confident and unapologetic about her own lifestyle, offering a blend of humor, edginess, and emotional depth.
Kevin Nelson as Raif
Kevin Nelson appears as Raif, a coffee shop owner who develops a mutual attraction with Ashley. Raif provides a softer contrast to the more intense dynamics in Ashley’s life, showing a more traditional romantic option and emotional support. Nelson’s performance adds balance to the narrative, offering viewers a character motivated by real connection and emotional interest outside of the BDSM world.
Nika Khitrova as Scarlet
Nika Khitrova plays Scarlet, a character who is initially introduced as one of Jules’ superiors at work and is secretly having an affair with Jules. Scarlet’s complex storyline adds layers of emotional drama and interpersonal tension. As the plot unfolds, Scarlet’s relationships evolve in unexpected ways, including a polygamous arrangement with Jules and Tomas. Khitrova’s performance highlights a character experiencing growth and shifting desires.
Brent Harvey as Tomas
Brent Harvey appears as Tomas, Scarlet’s husband and Jules’ boss, whose life becomes intertwined with Scarlet and Jules in surprising ways. Harvey’s role supports the series’ more dramatic arcs, illustrating how unconventional relationships can develop and reshape personal priorities. His portrayal adds depth to the narrative by challenging traditional notions of fidelity, love, and partnership.
Recurring and Supporting Cast
Beyond the main cast,Submissionfeatures a number of recurring and guest performers who enrich the storyline and contribute to the series’ diverse world. These supporting roles help expand the narrative beyond Ashley’s inner circle, illustrating different personalities, backgrounds, and experiences.
- Richie Calhoun as JonathanA recurring character who plays a part in the social dynamics surrounding the main cast.
- Sara Luvv as MauraAdds another personal perspective to the group of friends and acquaintances.
- Spike Mayer as VincentPlays Ashley’s exboyfriend, whose presence forces her to confront her past relationships and how they influence her present.
- Melissa Schumacher as TinaAppears in select episodes, adding nuance to the story’s social circles.
- Valerie Baber as KimberlyA character whose encounters with others add narrative complexity and social texture.
- Vicki Chase as SusannahOffers additional emotional and interpersonal interplay among the characters.
- Boston Blake as AnthonyAppears in a supporting role that contributes to group dynamics.
- Karla Kush as ChelseaA member of the book club started by Dylan, helping expand thematic elements related to selfdiscovery and community.
Character Dynamics and Relationships
The cast ofSubmissionis central to the series’ exploration of personal growth, interpersonal boundaries, and emotional complexity. The interactions between Ashley and characters like Elliott, Dylan, and Raif form the core of the narrative, creating situations that explore themes of trust, desire, and identity. Friendship, romantic tension, and communal connection are portrayed through both main and recurring roles, making the cast’s relationships feel layered and realistic.
Exploration of Themes Through Cast Interactions
One of the strengths of the cast is how their performances support the show’s thematic focus on empowerment and consent. Characters like Elliott and Dylan introduce Ashley to elements of BDSM in ways that reflect communication and mutual respect, while Raif represents a more conventional emotional connection. The cast’s ability to portray these differences with nuance allows audiences to see multiple facets of relationships, attraction, and personal development.
The Ensemble’s Contribution to Storytelling
AlthoughSubmissionis a short series with only six episodes, its ensemble cast helps create a story that feels rich and multidimensional. Each actor contributes to the tone and emotional impact of the series, making it possible to explore both dramatic and intimate moments effectively. The diversity of personalities allows for meaningful contrasts, from Ashley’s introspective journey to the bold confidence of characters like Dylan and Scarlet. The cast’s performances make the series feel authentic and engaging, inviting viewers to connect with the emotional stakes and the evolving relationships that define the narrative.
The Cast’s Impact on the Series
The cast ofSubmissionplays an indispensable role in making the series compelling and memorable. Ashlynn Yennie leads with a layered performance as Ashley Pendleton, supported by actors like Justin Berti, Victoria Levine, Raylin Joy, Kevin Nelson, Nika Khitrova, and Brent Harvey, whose characters shape the story’s complexity and emotional resonance. The supporting cast adds further depth, enhancing the series with interpersonal tension, humor, and social texture. Through their performances, the cast ofSubmissionhelps navigate themes of desire, identity, and emotional exploration within a framework that balances drama with personal growth. Their collective work allows the series to deliver a nuanced and engaging portrayal of a woman’s journey into a world that forces her to confront her own assumptions about trust, connection, and empowerment.