Jon Hamm

Jon Hamm at PaleyFest 2014

Jon Hamm

Jon Hamm (born March 10, 1971) is an American actor and producer. He is best known for his role as Don Draper in the television series Mad Men, which aired from 2007 to 2015. Hamm has received critical acclaim for his performance, earning multiple awards including a Golden Globe Award for Best Actor in a Television Series – Drama in 2008 and 2016, and a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series in 2015.

Early Life

Jon Hamm was born in St. Louis, Missouri. He attended John Burroughs School, a private school in Ladue, Missouri, where he was a member of the football, baseball, and swim teams. After graduating in 1989, Hamm enrolled at the University of Texas but later transferred to the University of Missouri. He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English in 1993.

Career

Early Career

Hamm moved to Los Angeles in 1995 to pursue an acting career. He struggled initially, working as a waiter while auditioning for roles. His first significant role came in 2000 when he was cast in the television series Providence. He also appeared in several other television shows, including The Division, What About Brian, and Related.

Breakthrough with Mad Men

Hamm's breakthrough role came in 2007 when he was cast as Don Draper in the AMC series Mad Men. The show, set in the 1960s, follows the lives of the employees of an advertising agency in New York City. Hamm's portrayal of the complex and troubled Draper earned him widespread acclaim and numerous awards.

Film Career

In addition to his television work, Hamm has appeared in several films. His notable film roles include appearances in The Town (2010), Bridesmaids (2011), Baby Driver (2017), and Bad Times at the El Royale (2018).

Voice Acting

Hamm has also lent his voice to various animated projects. He voiced characters in Shrek Forever After (2010), Minions (2015), and The Simpsons.

Personal Life

Hamm has been in a long-term relationship with actress and screenwriter Jennifer Westfeldt. The couple dated from 1997 to 2015. Hamm is also known for his philanthropic efforts, supporting various charities and causes.

Awards and Nominations

Hamm has received numerous awards and nominations throughout his career. His portrayal of Don Draper in Mad Men earned him two Golden Globe Awards and a Primetime Emmy Award. He has also been nominated for several Screen Actors Guild Awards and Critics' Choice Television Awards.

Filmography

Film

• Space Cowboys (2000)
• We Were Soldiers (2002)
• The Day the Earth Stood Still (2008)
• The Town (2010)
• Bridesmaids (2011)
• Friends with Kids (2011)
• Million Dollar Arm (2014)
• Baby Driver (2017)
• Bad Times at the El Royale (2018)

Television

• Providence (2000–2001)
• The Division (2002–2004)
• What About Brian (2006–2007)
• Mad Men (2007–2015)
• 30 Rock (2009–2012)
• Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt (2015–2019)
• Good Omens (2019)