Peyton Place. Leslie Harrington (Paul Langton, 1964–1968, episodes 1–69; 121–436; 452-454) Husband of Catherine and father of Rodney and Norman. Although Leslie only wanted the best for his family, his manipulative nature made him one of the most hated people of Peyton Place. He covered up the truth about Elizabeth Carson's murder, tried to manipulate his sons against his father-in-law, and eventually left town because of his bad reputation and several more acts bordering on criminal, with one even abetting a murder. Norman Harrington (Christopher Connelly, 1964–1969, entire run) The youngest son of Leslie and Catherine and shy younger brother of Rodney. Once in love with Allison, he never had a real chance with her. He later becomes romantically involved with Rita Jacks, despite their social differences. They marry happily but often have to bear the brunt of their loved ones' struggles. Laura Brooks (Patricia Breslin, 1964–1965, episodes 2–36) Sister of Leslie and widow of Dr. Donald Brooks. After Dr. Rossi arrived in town, she immediately fell in love with him and became his secretary. They never had a relationship. She eventually left town to move to Europe, explaining she could not live in a town with so many problems. Catherine Harrington (Mary Anderson, 1964, episodes 2–20) Daughter of Martin Peyton, wife of Leslie and mother of Rodney and Norman. Despite her death, she remained a character who was recurrently talked about. It was later revealed she was to blame for Elizabeth Carson's murder and was the birth mother of Steven Cord and Ann Howard, a revelation that proves to have dire consequences for both. Dr. Robert Morton (Kent Smith, 1964–1965, recurring afterwards, episodes 8–137, 214–240) Husband of Grace and father of Claire. He was a rival of Dr. Rossi, but they later reconciled. He is a close friend of the Harrington family. Later main characters Elliot Carson (Tim O'Connor, 1965–1968, episodes 25–435; 440) Son of Eli, husband of Connie and father of Allison. He spent 18 years in jail for a false accusation and later became the editor of the local newspaper. He marries Connie and they have a son, Matthew; after several crises draw the couple in deep enough to compromise them, Elliot persuades Connie that they and their son deserve a new better life away from Peyton Place. Rita Jacks (Patricia Morrow, 1965–1969, episodes 52–514) Daughter of Ada and Eddie. She grew up in a poor family