Jon Hamm, renowned for his role as Don Draper in “Mad Men,” has recently shared insights about whiskey preferences while promoting his new series, “Your Friends & Neighbors.” In this second season, Hamm’s character, Andrew Cooper, showcases a stark contrast to his previous iconic role.
Whiskey Showdown: Don Draper and Andrew Cooper
In a conversation with El-Balad, Hamm compared the whiskey preferences of his two characters. Don Draper, whose drink of choice was Canadian Club, embodied the ’60s cocktail culture. However, Hamm noted that Draper’s choice was less than ideal, describing it as “sort of a bargain-basement blended rye.”
In contrast, Cooper prefers Macallan 25, a luxury Scotch that retails around $5,000 a bottle. Hamm remarked, “I’ve had both of them — Macallan is much better.” This comparison highlights the evolution of whiskey tastes and the changing perceptions in different eras.
Historical Context of Whiskey Choices
According to Hamm, single malts like Macallan weren’t popular in the ’60s, with blended whiskeys like J&B and Johnnie Walker dominating the market. This shift in preference underscores a broader change in consumer tastes and the whiskey industry since the 1980s.
A Unique Voice in Advertising
Hamm’s experience in commercial advertising undoubtedly influenced his portrayal of Andrew Cooper. He previously served as a spokesperson for Mercedes-Benz during the height of “Mad Men.” Hamm stated that this role helped him refine his voice and execution in delivering pitches, parallel to Cooper’s voiceover segments in the series.
Character Development and Plot Challenges
In the ongoing narrative of “Your Friends & Neighbors,” Hamm’s character faces moral dilemmas as he navigates a life of crime. Showrunner Jonathan Tropper has creatively woven these elements into the plot, making Cooper’s choices both engaging and complex.
Hamm voiced his thoughts on the character’s predicament, noting how common it is for individuals to make poor decisions for various reasons. The tension of returning to a life that once jeopardized his character’s future adds depth to the narrative.
Looking Ahead: Your Friends & Neighbors
As the series progresses, Hamm confirms the show’s renewal for a third season, generating excitement among fans. This commitment showcases both Hamm’s dedication to the project and the show’s growing popularity.
Future Projects: Confess, Fletch
Away from television, Hamm expressed hope for continuing the “Fletch” franchise, aiming to adapt more of Gregory McDonald’s novels. Despite facing hurdles with production rights, he remains enthusiastic about bringing the character to life again.
In conclusion, Jon Hamm’s reflections on whiskey reveal much about his characters in both “Mad Men” and “Your Friends & Neighbors.” With the anticipation surrounding the new season and potential future projects, Hamm’s career continues to evolve while remaining firmly rooted in rich storytelling and character development.
