The acclaimed television series Mad Men showcases an ensemble of remarkably talented actors who breathe life into its intricately drawn characters. Set against the backdrop of a 1960s New York advertising agency, the show delves into the lives of its morally ambiguous characters, each entangled in a world of extramarital affairs, shady business dealings, and the omnipresent haze of cigarette smoke. While other dramas like The Sopranos kept viewers engaged with violent confrontations, Mad Men masterfully captivates its audience through deep character exploration and interpersonal drama.
Over its seven critically acclaimed seasons, the cast of Mad Men garnered two Screen Actors Guild Awards for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series. The talented actors received numerous nominations, including Emmy and Golden Globe awards, some even taking home prestigious accolades. The show’s writers crafted a multifaceted array of characters, beautifully portrayed by the cast, rendering Mad Men a series defined by its rich character development and nuanced performances from some of television’s most accomplished actors.
Jon Hamm as Don Draper
Birthdate: March 10, 1971
Character: Jon Hamm portrays the enigmatic Don Draper, a troubled advertising executive and quintessential antihero of the series. Draper, who adopts a new identity after stealing it from his superior during the Korean War, becomes one of the most memorable characters in the “Peak TV”era. Hamm has received an Emmy Award, a Golden Globe, and two Screen Actors Guild Awards for his exceptional performance.
| Movie/TV | Role |
|---|---|
| Bridesmaids (2011) | Ted |
| Baby Driver (2017) | Jason “Buddy”Van Horne |
| Top Gun: Maverick (2022) | Vice Admiral Beau “Cyclone”Simpson |
| Mean Girls (2024) | Coach Carr |
| Transformers One (2024) | Sentinel Prime |
Actor: Hamm’s journey in acting began with a role in A Midsummer Night’s Dream that led to various stage productions before his breakthrough on television. After impressing audiences in roles like the NBC drama series Providence, Hamm set a personal deadline for success in Hollywood. He now boasts a diverse filmography, starring in notable films such as Bridesmaids and Baby Driver.
Elisabeth Moss as Peggy Olson
Birthdate: July 24, 1982
Character: Elisabeth Moss embodies Peggy Olson, who evolves from Don Draper’s secretary to a formidable copywriter, symbolizing the feminist movement within the series. Her outstanding performances earned her six Primetime Emmy nominations and recognition as “The Queen of Peak TV” by Vulture.
| Movie/TV | Role |
|---|---|
| The West Wing (1999-2006) | Zoey Bartlet |
| The Handmaid’s Tale (2017-) | June Osborne / Offred |
| Us (2019) | Kitty Tyler / Dahlia |
| The Invisible Man (2020) | Cecilia Cass |
| The French Dispatch (2021) | Alumna |
Actor: Moss’s early career featured significant roles, including Zoey Bartlet in The West Wing. Her success in Mad Men propelled her to an iconic role in The Handmaid’s Tale, where she garnered two Emmy Awards, and showcased her talent in critically acclaimed films.
John Slattery as Roger Sterling
Birthdate: August 13, 1962
Character: John Slattery portrays the charming yet hedonistic Roger Sterling, a key partner at Sterling Cooper. Roger’s ongoing relationship with Lucky Strike and tumultuous affair with Joan Holloway drive significant plotlines. Slattery received four Emmy nominations for his role.
| Movie/TV | Role |
|---|---|
| Mona Lisa Smile (2003) | Paul Moore |
| Flags of Our Fathers (2006) | Bud Gerber |
| Iron Man 2 (2010) | Howard Stark |
| The Adjustment Bureau (2011) | Richardson |
| Spotlight (2015) | Ben Bradlee Jr. |
Actor: John Slattery developed his acting career through guest roles in popular TV shows and supporting roles in films. His career highlights include portraying Howard Stark in the Marvel Cinematic Universe and the journalist Ben Bradlee Jr. in Spotlight, which won the Academy Award for Best Picture.
Christina Hendricks as Joan Holloway
Birthdate: May 3, 1975
Character: Joan Holloway, played by Christina Hendricks, begins as the office manager and eventually rises to become a junior partner. Her complex relationships, particularly with Roger, reveal the gender dynamics of the time. Hendricks earned six Emmy nominations for her exceptional performance.
| Movie/TV | Role |
|---|---|
| Drive (2011) | Blanche |
| The Neon Demon (2016) | Roberta Hoffman |
| Bad Santa 2 (2016) | Diane Hastings |
| The Strangers: Prey at Night (2018) | Cindy |
| Good Girls (2018-2021) | Beth Boland |
Actor: After starting her career as a model, Christina Hendricks transitioned to acting, gaining recognition through various TV roles before her breakout in Mad Men. She later starred in Good Girls and had supporting roles in acclaimed films.
Vincent Kartheiser as Pete Campbell
Birthdate: May 5, 1979
Character: Vincent Kartheiser’s Pete Campbell embodies ambition and entitlement as a young account executive willing to compromise his integrity for success. His misguided quest for power often leads to morally questionable decisions.
| Movie/TV | Role |
|---|---|
| Angel (2002-2004) | Connor |
| Alpha Dog (2006) | Pick Giaimo |
| Rank (2011) | Ezekiel / Lasso Rodent (Voice) |
| Proven Innocent (2019) | Bodie Quick |
| Titans (2021) | Dr. Jonathan Crane |
Actor: Kartheiser is known for his role as Connor in the series Angel and later featured as Dr. Jonathan Crane in Titans. His earlier films include Alpha Dog and Masterminds. Despite his extensive work, he has not starred in major projects since 2021.
January Jones as Betty Draper
Birthdate: January 5, 1978
Character: January Jones portrays Betty Draper, Don’s wife and mother to his three children. Following their divorce, she marries Henry Francis, but ultimately faces a tragic fate diagnosed with cancer. Jones’s performance earned her critical acclaim and an Emmy nomination.
| Movie/TV | Role |
|---|---|
| The Three Burials of Melquiades Estrada (2005) | Lou Ann Norton |
| We Are Marshall (2006) | Carole Dawson |
| X-Men: First Class (2011) | Emma Frost |
| Sweetwater (2013) | Sarah Ramirez |
| The Last Man on Earth (2015-2018) | Melissa Chartres |
Actor: January Jones began her career in modeling before transitioning to acting. After minor roles in popular films, her portrayal of Betty in Mad Men defined her career, leading to roles in The Last Man on Earth and a significant role as a mutant in X-Men.
Kiernan Shipka and Sally Draper
Birthdate: November 10, 1999
Character: Kiernan Shipka portrays Sally Draper, the eldest child of Don and Betty, who faces the challenges of a turbulent home. Originally a minor character, she ascended to a significant role starting in season 4, contributing to the show’s success.
| Movie/TV | Role |
|---|---|
| The Legend of Korra (2012-2014) | Jinora (Voice) |
| Feud: Bette and Joan (2017) | B.D. Hyman |
| Chilling Adventures of Sabrina (2018-2020) | Sabrina Spellman |
| Swimming with Sharks (2022) | Lou Simms |
| Red One (2024) | Grýla |
Actor: Shipka gained recognition as Sabrina Spellman in Chilling Adventures of Sabrina and showcased her talent from a young age in various roles. After debuting in ER as an infant, her portrayal of Sally Draper solidified her status as a prominent young actress.
Mad Men Supporting Cast & Characters
Standout Supporting Characters in Mad Men
Aaron Staton as Ken Cosgrove: Account executive Ken Cosgrove, played by Aaron Staton, is an aspiring writer featured throughout the series. Staton also lent his voice to lead character Cole Phelps in the video game L.A. Noire.
Rich Sommer as Harry Crane: Harry Crane, Sterling Cooper’s TV department head, is portrayed by Rich Sommer, who has appeared in various series including Elementary and GLOW.
Robert Morse as Bert Cooper: The late Robert Morse takes on the role of Bert Cooper, Sterling Cooper’s eccentric senior partner, known for his iconic contributions to stage and screen.
Bryan Batt as Sal Romano: Sal Romano, the closeted art director, is brought to life by Bryan Batt, who has also performed in several musicals and series.
Michael Gladis as Paul Kinsey: Michael Gladis portrays the liberal copywriter Paul Kinsey, showcasing his diverse talent in both Penny Dreadful and film roles.
Jared Harris as Lane Pryce: Jared Harris plays Lane Pryce, who undergoes significant personal conflicts throughout his tenure at Sterling Cooper. Harris is known for his gripping performances in Sherlock Holmes and Chornobyl.
Jessica Paré as Megan Draper: Don’s third wife, Megan, is skillfully portrayed by Jessica Paré, whose career includes roles in dramas like SEAL Team.
Ben Feldman as Michael Ginsberg: Copywriter Michael Ginsberg, played by Ben Feldman, is a character that represents the shifting landscape of advertising during the 1960s.
Jay R. Ferguson as Stan Rizzo: Stan Rizzo, an art director and Peggy’s love interest, is played by Jay R. Ferguson, who has enjoyed an extensive acting career.
Kevin Rahm as Ted Chaough: Kevin Rahm portrays rival Don Draper in a competitive, cutthroat advertising landscape that characterizes Mad Men.
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