The Horror of Dolores Roach Cast: From Justina Machado to Cyndi Lauper, Meet the Stars

The Horror of Dolores Roach, released on Prime Video on July 7, 2023, is an American dark comedy horror television series that will leave you on the edge of your seat. Unfortunately, it was canceled after one season.

Led by Justina Machado in the title role, the show is a gripping adaptation of the one-woman off-Broadway play Empanada Loca and the top-rated podcast of the same name from Gimlet Media, masterfully created by Aaron Mark.

This spine-tingling series revolves around Dolores Roach, who emerges after a long and unjust 16-year prison sentence and returns to a transformed and gentrified Washington Heights neighborhood.

The Horror of Dolores Roach is a dark comedy horror television series on Amazon Prime Video that stars Justina Machado in the title role (Credit: YouTube)

She seeks solace in her old friend Luis, a laid-back stoner, who generously offers her shelter and work as a masseuse in the basement beneath his empanada shop. However, her newfound stability is soon jeopardized, forcing her to make unimaginable survival choices.

Let’s delve into the world of The Horror of Dolores Roach and unveil the heights of the talented ensemble cast that brings this haunting story to life.

1. Jeffery Self as Caleb – Standing Tall at 6 Feet (183 cm)

Jeffery Self is 6 feet (183 cm) tall and plays Caleb in this gripping comedy horror series. As Dolores Roach embarks on her new massage business venture, Caleb becomes her first customer, setting the stage for unexpected encounters.

You may recognize the American actor from his previous appearances as George in the indie horror-comedy cult hit You’re Killing Me and Randy Lemon in the acclaimed series 30 Rock.

Jeffery Self at the premiere of Spoiler Alert in New York City on November 29, 2022 (Credit: Marion Curtis / StarPix for Focus Features / Startraksphoto / Cover Images)

His talent has landed him in numerous television shows, where he’s made recurring, featured, and guest appearances. Notably, he co-starred alongside Cole Escola in the side-splitting sketch comedy series Jeffery & Cole Casserole.

Apart from his acting prowess, Jeffery is a talented writer. He has authored two humor books—Fifty Shades Of Gay and Straight People: A Spotters Guide—and the young adult novels A Very Very Bad Thing and Drag Teen.

Jeffery Self showcased his hosting skills on the MTV series Scream: After Dark, treating fans to deleted scenes and cast interviews from the famous MTV horror series Scream. Most recently, he dazzled viewers as Marc Doober on Search Party on HBO Max.

2. Kita Updike as Nellie Morris – Impressive 5ft 11 in. (180 cm) Stature

Kita Updike has an impressive height of 5 feet and 11 inches (180 cm) and portrays Nellie Morris. As the fiery attendant and cashier at Luis’ Empanada Loca, Nellie’s relationship with Dolores starts rocky.

However, as the story unfolds, admiration and respect blossom between the two, leading to captivating on-screen moments that hold the plot together.

As the sole original actor from the podcast, the half-Chippewa, half-American actress and model, brings depth and authenticity to her role.

Kita Updike wearing pointy-toe heels for a slight boost to her height at the special screening of Insidious: The Red Door in New York City on June 27, 2023 (Credit: Marion Curtis / StarPix for Sony / Startraksphoto)

Known for her outstanding performance in The Misandrists, Kita Updike has had a remarkable theatrical journey, having worked with renowned companies like Women’s Project Theater and Eugene O’Neill Theater Center.

The Public Theater, in particular, was instrumental in suggesting Kita for this project. Her connection to The Heights, just minutes away from the story’s setting, adds an even deeper layer of understanding to her character and the profound themes of gentrification woven throughout the storyline.

3. Alejandro Hernandez as Luis Batista – 5ft 11 in. (180 cm) Presence

Alejandro Hernandez is 5 feet and 11 inches (180 cm) tall and portrays Luis Batista. As Dolores Roach returns to the streets of Washington Heights, she reunites with her old friend, Luis, who offers her a place to stay. All appears to be going well until a chilling discovery leads Luis down a dark and mysterious path.

A seasoned actor, writer, and producer, you may recognize him from his previous roles as Herbalist in Gotham and Tommy Chase in FBI. He also appeared in an episode of Elementary and has minor roles in movies such as Monster and American Dreamer.

Recently, Alejandro earned widespread acclaim for his 64-episode run as Casey Acosta in the beloved NBC original New Amsterdam, garnering the admiration of fans worldwide.

4. Marc Maron as Gideon Pearlman – Average Height of 5ft 9 in. (175.3 cm)

Marc Maron has an average height of 5 feet and 9 inches (175.3 cm), and he takes on the role of Gideon Pearlman, a local businessman with a keen eye for profit. As fate intertwines the lives of Luis and Dolores, Gideon’s presence becomes much more than just that of a landlord to our protagonists.

With a remarkable legacy in the entertainment industry, the American comedian is a seasoned actor known for his exceptional performances. Having dabbled in various creative pursuits like writing, comedy, and music, his experience as a podcaster is especially fitting for this role.

At five feet and nine inches, Marc Maron is slightly taller than Anthony Ramos and Lilly Singh at the special screening of The Bad Guys in Los Angeles, California, on April 12, 2022 (Credit: Faye’s Vision / Cover Images / INSTA)

You may recognize Marc Maron from his standout portrayal of Sam Sylvia in the hit series GLOW, earning him praise from the streaming generation.

Continuing his streak of captivating appearances, Marc recently starred in Reservation Dogs and has exciting projects lined up, including an untitled collaboration with Richard Curtis and Melissa McCarthy.

5. K. Todd Freeman as Jeremiah – 5ft 8 ½ in. (174 cm) of Warmth and Compassion

K. Todd Freeman, who stands 5 feet and 8 ½ inches (174 cm) tall, portrays Jeremiah. He is a kind-hearted meat vendor who treats Dolores with warmth and compassion. As the story unfolds, Jeremiah becomes integral to Dolores’ darkening journey, looking out for her amidst the shadows.

K. Todd Freeman is a seasoned actor with nearly 50 credits, from supporting roles in acclaimed films like Grosse Pointe Blank to a memorable recurring role on Buffy the Vampire Slayer.

K. Todd Freeman attending the premiere of A Series of Unfortunate Events Season Two in New York City on March 29, 2018 (Credit: JOHN NACION / Startraksphoto)

His career spans a wide range of roles in popular shows and films, including The Blacklist, The OA, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, and The Cider House Rules. Over the years, his talent has earned him two Tony Award nominations and a Drama Desk Award win.

6. Jessica Pimentel as Flora Frias – 5ft 4 ½ in. (163.8 cm) with a Strong On-Screen Presence

With an average height of 5 feet and 4 ½ inches (163.8 cm), Jessica Pimentel portrays Flora Frias. In the series, Flora is an actress who portrays Dolores in a famous stage play.

As she delves into her character’s story, she empathizes with Dolores’ circumstances, leading to a profound realization.

Jessica Pimentel slipping into platform heels for a stylish boost at the premiere of Spirited in New York City on November 7, 2022 (Credit: ROGER WONG / INSTARimages / Cover Images)

You may recognize the American actress from her standout role as Maria Ruiz in the acclaimed Netflix original series Orange Is the New Black. Her portrayal of Floyd in Person of Interest also earned a place in viewers’ hearts.

Beyond her acting career, Jessica is also a skilled musician. She is the lead singer of the metal band Alekhine’s Gun and a backing vocalist in the band Brujeria.

7. Cyndi Lauper as Ruthie – 5ft 3 in. (160 cm) with Broadway Roots

Cyndi Lauper is 5 feet and 3 inches (160 cm) tall, and she plays Ruthis, known by the locals as a Broadway theater usher. However, her secret career as a private investigator propels her into the heart of the plot, always on the front foot and alert.

With her notable work in films like Henry & Me and Here and There, the iconic pop singer-turned-actress has gained a devoted fan base that recognizes her for more than just her chart-topping success.

Cyndi Lauper’s petite height contrasts sharply with Callum Francis’ tall frame, both standing out in bold, patterned outfits at the Kinky Boots event (Credit: JOHN NACION / Startraksphoto / Cover Images)

Having enjoyed a remarkable career for over 40 years, the American singer and songwriter made history with her debut album, She’s So Unusual. She became the first female artist to achieve four top-five hits on the Billboard Hot 100.

Cyndi has made an impressive contribution to music, from her prosperous album True Colors to the chart-topping hit I Drove All Night.

8. Judy Reyes as Marcie – Petite but Powerful at 5ft 2 ½ in. (158.8 cm)

With a petite height of 5 feet and 2 ½ inches (158.8 cm), Judy Reyes takes on the role of Marcie, Dolores Roach’s rival and the owner of a local weed business.

What starts as an innocuous encounter quickly escalates when Dolores rejects Marcie’s offer, setting off a chain of events filled with tension and suspense.

Judy Reyes in a vibrant red jumpsuit at the 37th Annual Imagen Awards held at the LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes in Los Angeles, California on October 2, 2022 (Credit: Xavier Collin / ABACA / INSTARimages / Cover Images)

With a remarkable career in both television and film, the American actress brings her seasoned talent to this gripping series.

Best known for her iconic roles as Carla Espinosa in Scrubs and Zoila Diaz in Devious Maids, Judy Reyes has captivated audiences for over 30 years and earned a devoted fan base.

9. Jean Yoon as Joy – Standing at 5ft ½ in. (153.7 cm), a Petite Powerhouse

With a cute height of 5 feet and ½ inches (153.7 cm), Jean Yoon is one of the shortest female celebrities. She portrays Joy, a local laundromat owner who helps Dolores secure a job at her sister’s parlor.

She’s not just a businesswoman but also a regular customer at the empanada shop, making her an integral part of this captivating story.

Despite wearing high heels, Jean Yoon is still one of the shortest female celebrities at a petite height of a little over five feet (Credit: Shawn Goldberg / Shutterstock)

Jean Yoon is an award-winning actress known for her remarkable performances on TV shows like Nurses, The Expanse, and Orphan Black. The American-Canadian star’s portrayal of Umma in Kim’s Convenience has garnered widespread acclaim and recognition.

10. Justina Machado as Dolores Roach – Commanding the Role at 5ft (152.4 cm)

Taking on the titular role, Justina Machado, who stands at a petite height of 5 feet (152.4 cm), brings Dolores Roach to life. After an unjust 16-year prison sentence, she returns to Washington Heights, where she must grapple with the unfamiliarity of a gentrified world.

Armed with resilience and determination, she embarks on a dark and tense journey to uncover the mysteries that await her.

Justina Machado, the star of the show, is also the shortest member among the cast of The Horror of Dolores Roach at a height of five feet (Credit: Faye’s Vision / Cover Images)

With a remarkable career spanning over 25 years, Justina Machado’s dedication to her craft shines through in her incredible work.

Audiences may recognize the American actress from other notable TV roles like Vanessa Diaz in Six Feet Under and Darci Factor in Jane the Virgin. Her talent extends to the big screen, with appearances in movies like Torque and The Purge: Anarchy.

Her role as Penelope Alvarez in the hit sitcom One Day at a Time has garnered her a loyal following, and her outstanding performance in The Horror of Dolores Roach is sure to leave audiences spellbound.