It’s not every day you hear that Don Draper spends his downtime binging historical dramas, but in a 2013 interview,Mad Menstar Jon Hamm admitted exactly that. The actor, known for playing one of television’s most emotionally repressed executives, has shown off a surprising range —from chain-smoking villains to unhinged jewelry thieves— and clearly, his taste in TV is just as varied.
WithMad Menset in the 1960s and airing alongsideDownton Abbeyin the early 2010s, it makes sense that Hamm would be drawn even further back — to the post-Edwardian era. As it turns out,he was obsessed withDownton. In that 2013 interview, Hamm singled the show out by name, exclaiming his obsession with it. And when Don Draper sells us something, we listen.
Who Knew Jon Hamm Was An Avid Binge-Watcher?
According toIrish Examiner, Hamm once admitted he was “fascinated by Downton Abbey,” adding that he watched either it orThe Wirein just two weeks. While he didn’t specify which,it’s easy to imagine Hamm devouringDowntonduring a break between seasons ofMad Men— a fellow binge-watcher, just like the rest of us.
The animated FOX comedyBob’s Burgerspaid homage toDownton Abbeyin season 7, episode 17, “Zero Larp Thirty.”
But the love forDowntonisn’t totally unexpected. As an actor who broke out on a serious period drama,it makes sense that Hamm would gravitate toward another show rooted in historical prestige. Actors often learn from each other’s performances, andDownton Abbeyis full of standout ones.
By 2013, Hamm had also proved himself far beyond Don Draper. His comedic chops — evident fromSaturday Night Live,30 Rock, andBob’s Burgers— showcased a range ofsome of Hamm’s best rolesas wide as his watchlist. WhileMad Mendove into American masculinity,Downton Abbeylet him explore a different kind of drama altogether.
Downton Abbey Is Still A Must-Watch Drama, 15 Years After Its Debut
The Costume Design, Performances, and Storylines Are Truly Incredible
In early 2013,Downton Abbeywas at the height of its popularity. Season 3 had just aired, drawing nearly 12 million viewers in the UK and reaching massive U.S. audiences through PBS. Though it may not have been marketed to younger viewers,Downtonquietly gained the same level of acclaimas some of thebest TV shows of all time, likeBreaking Bad,Game of Thrones, andThe Wire.
The series, at its core, is a high-budget soap opera — but an exceptional one. It blends romantic melodrama, family tragedy, and subtle political commentary with award-winning writing and production. Its period setting, ornate costumes, and stunning Victorian backdrops added texture to a show that was already rich in character.
Critics took notice immediately. The first season alone earned an 86% rating onRotten Tomatoes, with even higher scores later on.It also dominated awards seasons while it was on air, taking home Emmys, Golden Globes, and more accolades.
86%
100%
83%
Not scored
Season 6
91%
What madeDownton Abbeystand out was its ensemble. Every character, upstairs and downstairs, had depth and distinct arcs. ThebestDowntonstorylinesexplored themes still relevant today: gender roles, class mobility, and the societal pressure to marry for financial security.
WhileGame of Thronesdelivered spectacle through gratuitous violence and betrayal,Downton Abbeygrounded its drama in personal relationships and emotional consequences. For many, it felt more honest, more reflective storylines of real human stakes.
The show’s cultural footprint hasn’t faded. With three films in its wake and a fourth on the horizon —Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale, set for release on June 12, 2025 — the franchise continues to evolve. It may no longer dominate the pop culture conversation, but its reputation has only deepened over time, living up to theMad Menstar’s praise.
