This article “Who is Dani Clayton in The Haunting of Bly Manor” contains minor spoilers.
We recapped the whole Netflix series — check out the archive.
As this is anthological, The Haunting of Bly Manor presented a new cast — and with a new cast means a presumed lead character that takes the reigns and thrusts us into the story. That character is Dani Clayton played by Victoria Pedretti. So who is Dani Clayton in The Haunting of Bly Manor?
Why does Dani go to Bly Manor?
Dani wants a job at Bly Manor that she has seen advertised — the role entails her being an au pair and to look after two children whose parents have unfortunately died.
Does she get the job?
It takes her a bit of convincing; unfortunately, Dani has no au pair experience, however, as she shows a bit of fight and literally finds Henry Wingrave (the man hiring) at the pub for a drink, she gets the job. Dani Clayton is a teacher as well, so her argument is that she can at least educate.
What is Dani like personality-wise?
She’s sweet, talkative, and enthusiastic. She’s not your stereotypical au pair though — she does not sell herself as someone who caters for children.
Where is she from and why an au pair? (warning — minor spoiler)
This is the crux of the questions that Henry poses — why an au pair? What’s “the catch”? Dani is from America so traveling all the way to England to partake in this role seems strange.
It turns out, Dani is trying to have a fresh start. After a recent event back in the States, Dani finds that Bly Manor will be a good distraction for her.
Is Dani with anyone romantically? (warning — minor spoiler)
She was. Her whole reason for leaving America was because of a failed relationship. As she navigates through the story, you come to learn that Dani has a restlessness inside that fits within the theme of the series.
Dani does find someone to be romantic with at Bly Manor which fleshes out as the series progresses.
