Mad Men Cast: Jon Hamm, Elisabeth Moss & More | Then & Now

Wilber Osinski 14 May 2025

Could a television show about advertising in the 1960s truly captivate audiences and leave an indelible mark on popular culture? Indeed, "Mad Men," with its meticulous attention to detail, complex characters, and exploration of societal shifts, not only achieved this but also redefined the period drama genre.

Set against the backdrop of Madison Avenue in New York City, "Mad Men" offered a compelling glimpse into the advertising world and the personal lives of those who inhabited it. The show, which debuted in 2007, quickly garnered critical acclaim for its sharp writing, stylish aesthetic, and nuanced portrayals of the era's changing social dynamics. From the polished offices of Sterling Cooper to the domestic lives of its characters, "Mad Men" immersed viewers in a world of shifting values, hidden anxieties, and the relentless pursuit of the American dream.

The show's brilliance lay not only in its historical accuracy but also in its ability to dissect the complexities of human relationships and the pressures of the professional world. The enigmatic Don Draper, the creative director at the heart of the show, embodied this complexity. Played with masterful precision by Jon Hamm, Draper was a man of secrets, ambition, and profound contradictions. His character, along with the other key players, navigated the treacherous waters of advertising, dealing with both personal demons and professional challenges.

The series unfolded across seven critically acclaimed seasons, with the first season taking place between March and November 1960, and the final episodes concluding in 1969. The narrative delved into various aspects of the characters' lives, from the rise of Peggy Olson, portrayed by Elisabeth Moss, to the marital troubles faced by Don and Betty Draper, and the complex dynamics within the agency. "Mad Men" was not merely a show about advertising; it was a profound meditation on identity, ambition, and the human condition.

Here's a breakdown of some of the key players in the "Mad Men" universe:

Actor	Character	Role	Notable Achievements	Reference
Jon Hamm	Don Draper	Creative Director at Sterling Cooper (later Sterling Cooper Draper Price)	Won a Golden Globe Award and a Primetime Emmy Award for his performance.	Wikipedia
Elisabeth Moss	Peggy Olson	Secretary, Copywriter, then Creative Director	Won a Primetime Emmy Award for her work in "The Handmaid's Tale" and numerous other awards.	Wikipedia
January Jones	Betty Draper	Don Draper's Wife	Nominated for a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress Television Series Drama.	Wikipedia
Vincent Kartheiser	Pete Campbell	Account Executive	Known for his portrayal of Pete Campbell, he has also appeared in several other film and television roles.	Wikipedia
Christina Hendricks	Joan Holloway	Office Manager	Nominated for six Primetime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series	Wikipedia
John Slattery	Roger Sterling	Partner and Head of Account Services	Has been in several other film and television roles.	Wikipedia

The series presented a captivating array of characters, each grappling with their own set of personal and professional hurdles. Don Draper, the enigmatic creative director, remained the focal point, his complex persona driving much of the show's narrative. Peggy Olson, initially a secretary, evolved into a successful copywriter, symbolizing the changing roles of women in the workplace. Pete Campbell, the ambitious account executive, and Betty Draper, Don's elegant yet emotionally fragile wife, added depth and complexity to the storytelling.

The show meticulously recreated the atmosphere of the 1960s, both in terms of its aesthetic and its exploration of the era's social and cultural landscape. From the fashion to the furnishings, from the music to the attitudes, "Mad Men" transported viewers to a bygone era. The series addressed themes such as the changing roles of women, the rise of consumer culture, the challenges of identity, and the complexities of human relationships. It did so with a level of sophistication and subtlety that distinguished it from many other television dramas.

The advertising agency, Sterling Cooper (later Sterling Cooper Draper Price), served as the central setting for the show's narrative. The agency's offices became a microcosm of the era, with its own internal politics, power struggles, and moments of triumph and despair. As the series progressed, the agency's evolution mirrored the broader changes taking place in American society, reflecting the shifting priorities and values of the time.

The show also featured cameos and guest appearances that enriched the narrative. Notable names include Robert Morse as Bertram Cooper, the eccentric partner; Aaron Staton as Ken Cosgrove; Rich Sommer as Harry Crane; and Kiernan Shipka as Sally Draper. Each of these characters contributed to the depth and richness of the ensemble cast.

The show's exploration of the advertising business offered a fascinating glimpse into the strategies and tactics employed to shape public opinion and influence consumer behavior. "Mad Men" depicted the creative process, the art of persuasion, and the power of branding. The characters understood the significance of imagery, language, and emotional connection. The series served as a commentary on the rise of consumer culture and its influence on American society.

"Mad Men" was more than just a period drama; it was a cultural phenomenon. The show's influence extended beyond the television screen, impacting fashion, design, and even social attitudes. The stylish aesthetic of "Mad Men" inspired clothing lines, home dcor, and countless discussions about the art of presentation. The show has been praised for its ability to transport viewers to another era while also exploring timeless themes that continue to resonate today.

The series' narrative arc was punctuated by significant historical events, including the Cuban Missile Crisis, the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, and the rise of the counterculture movement. These events served as a backdrop for the characters' personal journeys, emphasizing the impact of social and political change on individual lives. Season three takes place six months after the conclusion of the second season and ends in December 1963 and season four takes place between November 1964 and October 1965. The seventh season, divided into two parts, aired from April 13 to May 25, 2014, and April 5 to May 17, 2015.

The first half of season 7, titled "The Beginning," and the second half, "The End of an Era," marked the culmination of the series. The final episodes saw the characters grappling with the dynamics of life and work, as well as dealing with the shifting locations between New York and Los Angeles, reflecting the industry's evolution.

The show's production values were consistently high, with meticulous attention paid to detail. The costumes, set design, and cinematography contributed to the show's immersive atmosphere and overall appeal. The use of music was also noteworthy, with carefully selected tracks that enhanced the mood and reflected the era. The dedication to realism and aesthetic integrity played a crucial role in "Mad Men's" success.

The critical acclaim for "Mad Men" was widespread. The show received numerous awards and nominations, including multiple Primetime Emmy Awards and Golden Globe Awards. The cast, including Jon Hamm, Elisabeth Moss, and Christina Hendricks, earned recognition for their outstanding performances. The Screen Actors Guild recognized the cast's collective talent by awarding them for their outstanding performance by an ensemble in a drama series. The sixth season, in particular, was lauded, with Rotten Tomatoes reporting that 98% of critics gave it a positive review.

The legacy of "Mad Men" extends beyond its original run. The show has been lauded for its impact on television, its enduring popularity, and its influence on subsequent series. It is a show that has been revisited and re-evaluated over time. The show's cultural significance has been acknowledged in academic circles, and its themes continue to inspire debate and discussion.

In conclusion, "Mad Men" was a groundbreaking television series that offered a unique and compelling portrait of the advertising world and the 1960s. Through its complex characters, meticulous attention to detail, and exploration of societal changes, the show has remained in the public consciousness. The show's combination of historical accuracy, stylish aesthetics, and compelling storytelling cemented its place as one of the greatest television dramas of all time. It's a show that continues to captivate and inspire, reminding us of the power of television to tell stories that resonate long after the final credits roll.