Unveiling the Bitter Truths of Rewatching Mad Men, After 16 Years

Article Overview

Mad Men accurately depicted the racism of the 1960s, but failed to condemn it enough, reducing black characters to their impact on white characters.

The audience is left perplexed about the fate of Peggy and Pete's baby, as it remains undisclosed throughout the series.

Instead of using Betty's weight gain as a means to punish her character, the show could have approached issues of body-shaming and her transformation with greater understanding and inclusivity.

Mad Men, a critically acclaimed television show, premiered 16 years ago and continues to captivate audiences. However, not all aspects of the show have stood the test of time. Spanning seven seasons from 2007 to 2015, Mad Men is hailed as an iconic example of prestigious television. The anticipation for new episodes was unmatched for viewers who tuned in during its original airing. With unforgettable characters like Don Draper (portrayed by Jon Hamm), also known as Dick Whitman, and Peggy Olson (played by Elisabeth Moss), Mad Men presented a captivating portrayal of 1960s New York, blending glamour and terror. It is undeniable that Mad Men had a profound impact on the television landscape.

Presently, certain parts of the show have aged poorly, intentionally reflecting the era it represented. Mad Men fearlessly addressed weighty issues and openly commented on the inequality and systemic prejudices of the time. Each episode featured at least one scene that was purposely uncomfortable to highlight these social problems. However, upon reevaluation, there are other aspects of the show that would face significant challenges if produced today, and rightfully so. A critical reassessment shines a spotlight on all the successes, problems, and lingering questions that fans grapple with while revisiting this quintessential series.

10. Depictions of Racism And Overwhelming Whiteness

Set in the 1960s, Mad Men is a period piece that coincides with a crucial time for civil rights in American history. While the show accurately portrays the prevalent racism of the era, it falls short in challenging and condemning the actions of its white characters. The recurring Black characters often serve as mere catalysts for the development of their white counterparts, reducing their significance. Additionally, a disturbing instance of blackface by Roger further highlights the show's limited perspective. In later seasons, characters like Don's secretary Dawn Chambers and Peggy's secretary Shirley somewhat address this issue but remain primarily defined by their connections to the main characters and the agency. Although Dawn stands up for herself in one episode, little progress is made beyond that. A reboot of Mad Men would necessitate substantial changes in casting and storytelling to promote racial equity and propel the series forward.

9. Where is Peggy and Pete's Baby?

In season 2, episode 5 "The New Girl," the storyline takes us back to Peggy's hospital stay after giving birth to Pete's baby. Don visits her and delivers his famous "move forward" speech, and Peggy does just that. Throughout the series, there are only a few subtle references to Peggy and Pete's child, with its existence remaining undisclosed. Both Peggy and Pete carry the lingering presence of their unseen child, but neither actively pursue information about its whereabouts.

It is evident that the child was placed in the adoption or foster care system, but that is all the audience is aware of. In season 7, Peggy confides in Stan, saying, "I'm here, and... he's with a family... somewhere. I don't know, but it's not because I don't care. I don't know because it's not meant for me to know, or it would hinder my ability to move on." Although Peggy may have come to terms with the situation, the audience is forever left wondering about the true fate of Peggy and Pete's baby.

8. Body-Shaming And Betty's Weight Gain Arc

Discussion about women's bodies is a constant topic on the show, often involving objectification and criticism by men or women turning against each other. Although this remains a relevant issue, it could have been handled more sensitively and with greater empathy for the female characters. An example of the show's failure is the storyline in season 5 where Betty (played by January Jones) gains weight.

As Betty's character deteriorates throughout the series, using this plot as a form of "punishment" does not hold up. If the show aimed to showcase different body types, they could have cast an actual plus-sized actor instead. Although January Jones was pregnant at the time, the use of prosthetics to simulate weight gain was poorly executed and has not aged well.

7. Sally Grows Up, But What's The Deal With Bobby?

Watching Kiernan Shipka portray Sally Draper's growth on-screen was a truly memorable aspect of the show. Sally Draper's significant moments served as a crucial voice for important social issues of the era, particularly the Vietnam War in later seasons. Furthermore, she frequently functioned as a mirror for her parents, Don and Betty. Her character development was admirably thorough and nuanced, while her brother Bobby unfortunately received less attention.

Bobby's character was consistently portrayed by different child actors, with each new season introducing a new Bobby. Although younger, it would have been intriguing to witness the repercussions of his parents' challenges on him. Details regarding Bobby's current whereabouts or potential progression are scarce, leaving room for speculation.

6. Trudy Shouldn't Have Taken Pete Back

Trudy Campbell, portrayed by Allison Brie, endured a great deal of mistreatment from her husband Pete Campbell. Pete's actions on Mad Men included shameless behavior, but it was his infidelity and lack of respect that finally reached a breaking point in season 6, episode 3 "The Collaborators." Trudy kicks him out, expressing her desire to not divorce but to have him out of their home.

Their separation continues until the conclusion of season 7, when Pete secures a job in Wichita, Kansas. He manages to persuade Trudy to join him along with their child. Perhaps it's the allure of financial stability, the prospect of a new job, or the familiarity and security of marriage, but Trudy agrees. This ending may not have fulfilled the hopes of Trudy's fans, who had anticipated a different outcome after her firm stance against Pete for so long.

5. Depictions Of Sexual Harassment And Assault

Content must be written in English.

This serious topic requires a suitable framework and ample time and space for the audience to comprehend and come to terms with the experiences of the characters. While discussing assault on-screen can potentially be healing and beneficial for survivors, it is crucial to approach this delicate line with caution and respect.

In most cases, depicting an assault on-screen is unnecessary, and if it does occur, it should hold significant importance in a character's narrative and growth. Unfortunately, Mad Men often fails to meet this criteria. Viewers, whether watching for the first time or re-watching, should be aware that the show contains instances of sexual violence that could have been handled more considerately.

4. Joan Deserved Better

Joan (played by Christina Hendricks), a hidden gem among fans of the show, underwent remarkable character growth throughout the series. However, there are heartrending elements to Joan's story in Mad Men. Her ex-husband Greg Harris (portrayed by Sam Page) is an abominable individual who subjected her to physical assault prior to their marriage and later abandoned Joan and their son to serve in the Vietnam War. Despite the audience's dismay, Joan endures this treatment for an extended period of time, believing that marriage is the pivotal aspect of her life.

Furthermore, she bears the burden of enduring sexual harassment in the workplace and is even compelled to spend a night with a Jaguar executive in order to secure a vital account in season 5, episode 11 titled "The Other Woman". Although she manages to rise through the ranks and eventually leaves SC&P to establish her own business, it would have been gratifying to witness her liberate herself from the world of male degradation and disrespect that she endured for far too long.

3. The Greatest (Platonic) Love Story Was Between Peggy And Don

There were indeed more than three women in Don's life, but his bond with Peggy was the most significant. Jon Hamm's favorite episode, season 4 "The Suitcase," takes the audience on a journey of their relationship up until that point in the series, illustrating the genuine closeness between them. In the final episode of the series, "Person To Person," Peggy is one of the three phone calls Don makes as he stands on the verge of the rest of his life. With no familial ties that hold them together, the two genuinely love each other as best friends because they share the same passion and determination for advertising and feel like misfits in the world.

2. Peggy And Stan Were Meant To Be Together

Although Peggy and Don's relationship held great significance on the show, Peggy ultimately deserved her rightful happy ending with Stan. Some viewers argued that this fairytale outcome undermined Peggy's journey towards independence and self-reliance. Numerous suggestions were made regarding other individuals Peggy should have ended up with. Showrunner and creator Matthew Weiner himself initially opposed the pairing, but eventually relented because the narrative felt incredibly fitting. Being in a relationship does not diminish Peggy's personal growth nor imply that she will cease pursuing her career wholeheartedly. Rather, it signifies that she experiences a touch of happiness amidst her ambitious pursuits.

1. Harry Was The Villain Of The Show

Don may have been an antagonist to both himself and others, but Harry (Rich Sommer) takes the title of the ultimate villain and cautionary tale in the show. Mad Men's Harry Crane exhibits numerous traits that would not be acceptable in today's standards. While not as conniving as Pete or as self-destructive as Don, Harry starts off as a less experienced account man, but he recognizes the importance of investing in television, computers, and media placements before anyone else at the firm. This ultimately propels him to a position of great importance, but unfortunately, it only amplifies his negative qualities.

Similar to most male characters in the series, Harry consistently cheats on his wife, although the audience finds it particularly disappointing when he does. Upon initially meeting Harry, the show portrays him as distinct from the other manipulative ad men, and this portrayal is believable. However, as the series progresses and he gains more power, he gradually loses the positive qualities that initially resonated with viewers. Unlike other characters, there is no uncertainty about who he truly is or how low he is willing to stoop. After multiple viewings of Mad Men, it becomes evident that Harry should have achieved much more.

Editor's P/S

As a fan of Mad Men, I appreciate the show's unflinching portrayal of the 1960s, including the racism that was prevalent at the time. However, I agree that the show could have done more to condemn the actions of its white characters and to give more depth and agency to its black characters. The use of blackface by Roger is particularly disturbing, and it's clear that the show's writers and producers would need to take a different approach if they were to produce the show today.

I'm also intrigued by the lingering mystery of Peggy and Pete's baby. The show never explicitly reveals what happened to the child, and it's clear that this is a source of pain and regret for both Peggy and Pete. I would have liked to see the show explore this storyline more fully, and I think it would be interesting to see how the characters would have dealt with the situation if the show were to be rebooted.