Jon Hamm has established himself as a versatile actor, showcasing his talents in both film and television. With a career that spans multiple genres, from gripping dramas to light-hearted comedies, he has captivated audiences worldwide. Hamm began his acting journey at the University of Missouri and made a pivotal move to Los Angeles in 1995, setting an ambitious goal for himself: to achieve success in acting before he turned 30, or else return to a “real job” (source: The Times).
His breakthrough came with the NBC series Providence, leading to a slew of roles culminating in his iconic portrayal of Don Draper in the critically acclaimed series Mad Men. Over the years, Hamm has embraced diverse roles across genres including comedy, horror, and thrillers, earning numerous accolades along the way. The following showcases some of his most noteworthy performances.
10 Bad Times At The El Royale (2018)
Laramie Seymour Sullivan
Directed by Drew Goddard, Bad Times at the El Royale is a compelling noir thriller that weaves an intricate murder mystery set against the backdrop of a 1960s motel straddling the Nevada-California border. The film unravels as various guests with hidden secrets converge on the El Royale, only to confront a deadly danger that forces them to determine the identity of a murderer.
Hamm plays the enigmatic Laramie Seymour Sullivan, whose true identity is that of FBI Special Agent Dwight Broadbeck. Tasked by J. Edgar Hoover to collect evidence, his moral compass is tested when he attempts to intervene in a kidnapping. Despite being a box office disappointment, the film received favorable reviews and has since garnered a cult following.
9 Landman (2024)
Monty Miller
Created by the prolific Taylor Sheridan, whose portfolio includes the hit series Yellowstone, Landman premiered on Paramount+ in 2024. Starring alongside Billy Bob Thornton as Tommy Norris, Hamm portrays Monty Miller, the owner of M-Tex with deep ties to Tommy. The series, inspired by the Boomtown podcast, quickly garnered acclaim for its storyline and exceptional performances.
8 Top Gun: Maverick (2022)
Vice Admiral Beau “Cyclone”Simpson
In the highly anticipated sequel Top Gun: Maverick, Tom Cruise reprises his iconic role, with Hamm featuring as Vice Admiral Beau “Cyclone” Simpson. The film follows Maverick as he navigates his legacy while training a new generation of Top Gun pilots, including Rooster Bradshaw, the son of his late best friend. Hamm’s character is pivotal, representing authority and tension as he and Maverick clash over the latter’s unorthodox training methods.
Boasting a massive box office total of over $1.4 billion and six Oscar nominations, this film stands as a testament to Hamm’s ability to enhance a star-studded cast.
7 The Morning Show (2023)
Paul Marks
Joining the ensemble of The Morning Show in its third season, Hamm’s portrayal of Paul Marks—a tech billionaire looking to acquire the UBA network—adds a fresh dimension to the show. The series, which delves into the complexities of television journalism, competition from streaming platforms, and internal struggles for ratings, has shifted its focus in its latest installment, resonating with audiences. Hamm’s performance earned him a Primetime Emmy nomination, further solidifying his prominence in the industry.
6 The Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt (2015-2020)
Richard Wayne Gary Wayne
In the Netflix series The Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt, Hamm played Reverend Richard Wayne Gary Wayne, a charismatic cult leader who held Kimmy and her friends captive. His ability to embody the slick and sinister aspects of this character added depth to the show’s satire. As the series progressed, viewers watched Hamm’s character evolve from a backstory element to an integral part of Kimmy’s journey, culminating in a series of darkly humorous and poignant moments.
5 Good Omens (2019-2023)
Archangel Gabriel
Portraying the Archangel Gabriel in Good Omens, Hamm displayed his flair for the supernatural in this adaptation that examines the dynamic between an angel and a demon attempting to prevent the apocalypse. His character, initially a staunch ally of Heaven, experiences significant development throughout the series, showcasing Hamm’s versatility as an actor. With three Primetime Emmy nominations, the series has fostered a dedicated fan base.
4 The Town (2010)
Adam Frawley
In the gripping heist drama The Town, directed by Ben Affleck, Hamm plays Special Agent Adam Frawley, who tracks a gang of bank robbers in Boston. Set against a backdrop of deep-rooted camaraderie and tension among criminals, Hamm’s role as the dogged FBI agent provided the necessary counterpoint to Affleck’s sympathetic criminal character. Although he did not receive awards recognition for this role, his performance was highly regarded within the film’s ensemble cast.
3 Baby Driver (2017)
Jason “Buddy”Van Horne
In Baby Driver, directed by Edgar Wright, Hamm played Jason “Buddy”Van Horne, part of a group of criminals executing heists with the help of a talented getaway driver. Hamm’s chemistry with his on-screen partner added a layer of intensity to the film, creating a captivating, Bonnie and Clyde-esque dynamic that heightened the stakes for the protagonist, Baby. Hamm’s role was specifically written for him, positioning him as a central figure in this innovative soundtrack-driven action piece.
2 Fargo (2023-2024)
Sheriff Roy Tillman
Hamm delivers a powerful dual performance in Fargo‘s fifth season as Sheriff Roy Tillman, navigating the complex narrative of a woman’s traumatic past resurfacing. His portrayal blends law enforcement and a troubled history, allowing for rich character development in a series renowned for its dark humor and intricate storytelling. The season proved to be a standout, earning six Primetime Emmy nominations, including one for Hamm himself as Outstanding Lead Actor.
1 Mad Men (2007-2015)
Don Draper
Unquestionably, Hamm’s most iconic role is that of Don Draper in Mad Men, a series that catapulted him to fame. As the enigmatic creative director of a 1960s advertising agency, Hamm’s character grapples with identity, ambition, and the complexities of personal relationships. Over its seven seasons, Mad Men won numerous awards, including 16 Primetime Emmys, while Hamm himself received 12 nominations, capturing his first Emmy win for the series finale.
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