When it comes to the iconic series Mad Men, one might argue that the title is a bit misleading. Sure, we adore the suave antics of Don Draper and the shenanigans of Roger, Pete, and their gang (let’s just say Harry didn’t make the cut), but it’s the remarkable women who truly captured our hearts. This cleverly subversive show drew in male viewers with its glamorous portrayal of the 1960s, all while delivering powerful female narratives wrapped in cocktails and charm.
As fans, we’ve always understood that the real essence of the story lay with its formidable female characters. Here’s a look back at the standout women of Mad Men, ranked by how much we’ll miss them now that the show has left the airwaves. (Ladies, you will be missed!)
Megan
With her charming gap-toothed smile and bold fashion choices, Megan is a breath of fresh air. Starting as a secretary and nanny to Don’s children, her determination to carve out her own career independent of her husband’s influence was a delightful rebellion. Like a younger sister to Sally and a cousin to Peggy, Megan embodies the spirit of the mid-70s woman who declares, “I can bring home the bacon … and never let you forget you’re a man.” We bid farewell to our fabulous French-Canadian friend.
Betty
Ah, Betty. The quintessential 1960s housewife who has been both reviled and sympathized with. While many see her as a negligent mother, I view her as a victim of her era—trapped like a butterfly in a glass jar, admired for her beauty but denied autonomy. Betty’s struggles with her identity and self-worth resonate deeply, especially as she grapples with her role as a mother and a wife. I found myself rooting for her in the final episodes, hoping she’d find her way out of her glass cage.
Joan
Joan is a woman raised to be the center of attention, navigating the tricky waters of a male-dominated industry. Her character represents the seductive power of femininity, but she’s also a strategic player in a game stacked against her. When she takes a bold step by leveraging her allure for a partnership stake, viewers are torn between admiration and disbelief. Joan, your fierce spirit and sharp wit will be missed more than you know.
Sally
Sally is the heartbeat of the series and the true embodiment of evolving identity. From a naive girl to a disillusioned teenager, her journey reflects the tumultuous changes of the era—divorce, civil rights movements, and societal upheaval. Unlike her father, Sally’s character truly evolves, and I can’t help but wonder what her future holds. Out of all the women, I’m most curious about Sally’s journey beyond the show.
Peggy
Ah, Peggy. So much has been said about her—from her secretive past to her quest for respect in a male-centric world. Her transformation from a mere secretary to a powerful copy chief mirrors the ambitions of many modern women today. We’ve cheered for her, cried with her, and celebrated her victories. While we know Peggy will thrive wherever she goes, we’ll miss her as our Sunday night companion.
In conclusion, Mad Men has left a lasting impact on its viewers, especially through its unforgettable female characters. They have taught us about strength, resilience, and the complexities of womanhood during a transformative era. If you’re looking for more insights about fertility and home insemination, check out this helpful resource. And for those navigating the journey of artificial insemination, this post is a fantastic guide. For a deeper dive into the world of home insemination, take a look at this article.