Handler

A handler is responsible for monitoring an Active during an assignment. The monitoring is done remotely and internally, although the Dollhouse only requires handlers to listen in on missions that could put the Active in danger. Handlers are an important part of Dollhouse operation; Adelle DeWitt herself oversees their hiring.

Handlers are armed with handguns, and typically remain in the black van nearby when their Active is on assignment.

In extreme cases, Handlers are expected to execute their Actives to prevent them from falling into the wrong hands.

Handler/Active Relationship

Because a handler is responsible for an Active's well-being above all else, and for returning him or her to the Dollhouse at the end of an engagement, it is necessary for the handler to be the one memory that the dolls retain in both their imprinted and inactive states. To accomplish this, Topher Brink supervises an imprint process for each handler/active pair. The process involves a combination of the Dollhouse's mind-altering technology, physical contact, and a script, which Topher snidely refers to as a "spell." The script emphasizes the doll's trust in the handler, and the handler's care for the doll.

While an Active is out on an engagement, the handler monitors his or her vital signs and/or listens in on the conversation, depending on the nature of the assignment. If necessary, the handler communicates with Topher about whether or not the doll's stats are within mission parameters. The handler is only to interfere with the engagement if the safety of the doll is compromised, not to aid the doll or client in accomplishing the mission.

At the end of an engagement or in an emergency, the handler approaches the doll and initiates a set dialogue that signals a return to the Dollhouse for "treatment." The doll immediately accepts the handler and treatment and incorporates them into his or her reality. Echo is often seen discussing her immediate future with her handler on the way to her treatment.

Actives are sometimes paired with a handler other than the one they are bonded to, likely on low-risk engagements.

Dollhouse handlers

Current handlers

Boyd Langton

Boyd Langton is Echo's handler, protecting her by all means, although he hates the job and feels like he's exploiting her. His cop instincts also compel him to protect the innocents, such as the kidnapping victim Davina Crestejo, involved in the engagements.

Ramirez

Ramirez is Victor's handler, on leave during the events of "Man on the Street."

Bicks

Bicks is Ramirez' replacement as Victor's handler during "Man on the Street."

Travis

Travis is Boyd's replacement as Echo's handler, after Boyd is promoted to chief of security at the end of "A Spy in the House of Love."

Ex-handlers

Joe Hearn

Joe Hearn was Sierra's handler, and appears to have been the handler for her predecessor, as well.

Samuelson

Samuelson was Echo's handler prior to Boyd, and was killed in Alpha's rampage.

Alpha's Handler

It is unknown who Alpha's handler was and what sort of relationship Alpha had with him/her, but considering Alpha's violent escape and his brutal murder of Echo's previous handler it seams most likely that he is dead. Though the Dollhouse may have retired him or put him in the Attic for fear he had something to do with the composite event.