Although he’ll always be Don Draper to many of us, Jon Hamm is much more than just the iconic advertising executive from “Mad Men.” He’s a multifaceted actor who has just picked up two more Emmy nominations for his latest roles. One is for his chilling portrayal of a sadistic sheriff in “Fargo,” and the other is for his smooth-talking tech mogul in “The Morning Show.”
A Storied Emmy Journey
Jon Hamm’s journey through the world of Emmy nominations has been nothing short of remarkable. As of now, he’s amassed a staggering 14 Emmy nominations. Among these, he has won once, and that win came as a Lead Actor in a Drama Series for his work in the final season of “Mad Men.” This victory was the pinnacle of his career at that time, achieved on his 8th nomination for playing the complex and brilliant Don Draper.
Competing with the Best
Hamm's competition has always been fierce. His AMC colleague, Bryan Cranston, famously competed with him during the peak years of “Breaking Bad.” Cranston's portrayal of Walter White was so compelling that he bested Hamm four times in those years. The rivalry between these two actors became legendary, but now, in 2024, Hamm is the one to watch in the limited series and TV movie lead actor category for his formidable performance in “Fargo.”
Two Nominations in a Single Year
It’s not unusual for Hamm to be in the running for multiple Emmys in a single year. In fact, he’s been nominated for two Emmys in the same year four times before. He’s had this honor in 2009, 2010, 2012, and 2015. His dual nominations often came from his work on “Mad Men” and guest roles in Tina Fey’s beloved comedies, “30 Rock” and “Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt.”
The “30 Rock” Connection
Hamm’s connection with “30 Rock” is particularly notable. He was nominated in 2009 and 2010 for his role as the handsome but hilariously dim-witted doctor Drew. In 2012, he received another nomination for his appearance on a live episode where he played two characters: the newsman David Brinkley and Abner, a role that included a controversial blackface portrayal. The episode was intended as a critique of Hollywood’s racist past, but in 2020, “30 Rock” producers decided to pull it from streaming and syndication due to its use of blackface. Despite this, the episode remains part of Emmy history.
The “Kimmy Schmidt” Twist
Hamm’s 2015 nomination came for his role as a cult leader and kidnapper in “Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt.” This character was another in a line of roles that might be seen as problematic today but was presented with comedic intent. Interestingly, this character shared some traits with Hamm’s “Fargo” sheriff. It’s almost as if Fey had a prescient sense of Hamm’s future roles, or perhaps someone from “Fargo” had a peek at Netflix!
Looking Ahead
As of 2024, Hamm’s latest nominations put him in a fascinating position. He’s now a seasoned Emmy veteran and stands out in the limited series and TV movie categories for his gripping portrayal in “Fargo.” Receiving a second nomination for supporting actor in “The Morning Show” is just another testament to his versatility and staying power in the industry.
Jon Hamm’s Legacy
Jon Hamm's impressive Emmy track record is a testament to his incredible range and depth as an actor. From the complex and charismatic Don Draper to his latest roles in “Fargo” and “The Morning Show,” Hamm continues to captivate audiences and critics alike. His career trajectory is not only a testament to his talent but also to his ability to adapt and thrive in an ever-evolving industry.
In conclusion, while Don Draper may always be a significant part of Hamm’s legacy, his diverse roles and continual success prove that he’s much more than just one character. His journey through the Emmys is a testament to his extraordinary talent and his ability to bring something new and exciting to each role he takes on. Here’s to Jon Hamm, a true powerhouse in the world of television!
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