Where the Heart Is Cast

Natalie Portman plays Novalee Nation, a pregnant 17-year-old who rebuilds her life after being abandoned in a Walmart.

Ashley Judd portrays Lexie Coop, a kind-hearted nurse who becomes one of Novalee's closest friends.

Stockard Channing takes on the role of Thelma 'Sister' Husband, a quirky, maternal figure who offers Novalee a place to live.

Joan Cusack plays Ruth Meyers, a welcoming but no-nonsense photographer who hires Novalee for her wedding.

Sally Field appears as Mama Lil, a character who is part of Novalee's complex past.

James Frain portrays Forney Hull, a librarian who becomes deeply involved in Novalee's life.

Dylan Bruno plays Willy Jack Pickens, the feckless boyfriend who abandons Novalee at the Walmart.

Keith David takes the role of Moses Whitecotten, a photographer at Walmart who imparts wisdom to Novalee.

Ray Prewitt plays Tim, a character involved in the narrative surrounding Novalee's journey.

Laura House appears as Nicki, one of the figures in Novalee's story as she navigates motherhood and building a life.

Mary Ashleigh Green plays the Girl in Bathroom, a character Novalee encounters during her time in the Walmart.

Kinna McInroe portrays the Wal-Mart Clerk, one of the first people Novalee interacts with upon her arrival in the store.