Hey, Mad Men aficionados! You’ll be thrilled to know that Don Draper was indeed the genius behind that legendary Coca-Cola commercial. That’s straight from the horse’s mouth—Matthew Weiner, the showrunner himself!
In an engaging discussion with novelist Cora Fields at the New York Public Library, Weiner opened up about the much-talked-about finale of the beloved series. Here are some highlights:
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Yes, Don was the mastermind behind that unforgettable Coke ad.
Picture Don relaxing with a group of fellow retreat-goers on the scenic Northern California coast, a smile creeping across his face. At that moment, fans were over the moon watching the iconic “Hilltop” commercial that taught the world to sing. Weiner confirmed that it was Don’s brainchild, pondering aloud, “Why not wrap up the show with the greatest ad ever created?” -
Let’s dismiss the cynics who claim this ending is a hollow twist.
When the famous Coke ad first debuted, nobody viewed it with irony—it was groundbreaking! Even if it marketed a sugary drink, it struck a chord. To the skeptics who think Weiner’s choice was a clever play, they’re missing the mark. It was far from a cynical conclusion; it represented a moment of enlightenment in advertising. As Weiner put it, “Five years prior, black and white people couldn’t even be in the same ad! The belief that someone in a state of enlightenment could create something pure—that ad embodies so much of its era and has a beauty that shouldn’t be undermined.” -
The crying man at the retreat was crucial to the series.
The weeping character named Leonard in the therapy session symbolized the disconnected post-war man. Weiner hopes viewers see him as a mirror for Don himself. “I want the audience to feel that he is embracing a part of themselves, and that they are being heard. I don’t want to articulate it more than that. It was about connection and recognition.” -
Joan’s journey surprised even Weiner.
According to reports, Weiner never envisioned Joan pursuing self-actualization. “I thought she would go through with that abortion,” he admitted. “I certainly didn’t expect her to become a single mom and feminist seeking childcare. I appreciate that it’s a practical decision for her. She decided she wouldn’t take any nonsense anymore. This woman loves her work, biologically!”
Originally published on May 21, 2015, this discussion gives us a glimpse into the deep connections and surprising revelations of the beloved series. Want to dive deeper into related topics? Check out this post on home insemination kits for more information, or explore at-home insemination kits for expert insights. If you’re on the journey of parenthood, Healthline offers excellent resources for pregnancy and home insemination too!
In summary, Matthew Weiner’s reflections on the series finale reveal that Don Draper’s legacy is intertwined with a cultural moment that was anything but cynical. It’s a celebration of creativity, connection, and unexpected journeys.