Jon Hamm: The Timeless Allure of a Period Icon, From Don Draper’s Fedora to ‘No Sudden Move’

At first glance, new photographs featuring actor Jon Hamm immediately conjure images of his most iconic role, making it appear as if he’s stepping directly out of the early seasons of Mad Men. While his striking resemblance to the debonair advertising executive Don Draper from the celebrated AMC drama is undeniable, the 49-year-old actor was actually meticulously dressed for the year 1955 on the set of the new Steven Soderbergh-directed crime thriller, No Sudden Move. Hamm looked exquisitely dapper in a sharp grey suit, impeccably paired with a crisp white shirt and a vibrant red tie. Completing his ensemble was a long, sophisticated grey overcoat and a classic grey fedora hat – an accessory that felt like it was plucked straight from the wardrobe department of Mad Men itself, solidifying his natural affinity for mid-20th-century aesthetics.

The cinematic backdrop for No Sudden Move is the year 1955, an era where wearing hats in public was not merely a fashion statement but a widespread social norm for men, signifying status and propriety. This sartorial elegance, characterized by tailored suits and distinguished headwear, gracefully persisted into the early to mid-1960s, a period vividly captured and deeply explored by fans of Mad Men. That groundbreaking series, which masterfully spanned an entire tumultuous decade from 1960 through 1970, subtly showcased the evolving landscape of men’s fashion and societal shifts. As the 1960s progressed and cultural tides began to turn, Don Draper’s iconic fedora gradually receded from view in the later episodes, mirroring the decline in popularity of such formal headwear by the late 1960s. Ultimately, by the series’ poignant finale, Draper’s character arc saw him embracing a more introspective, almost “hippie” sensibility, culminating in his conceptualization of the legendary Coca-Cola jingle during a transformative retreat in Big Sur, California, symbolizing a profound personal and cultural metamorphosis.

Jon Hamm’s portrayal of Don Draper was a slow-burn evolution, as the character, rather than being a youthful trendsetter, was a figure grappling with the rapid pace of change. He clung steadfastly to the classic, refined aesthetics of the early 1960s, a look that Hamm’s inherent features—his chiseled face, impeccable hair, and commanding physical frame—seem uniquely tailored for. This extraordinary congruence between actor and era undoubtedly contributed to his profound believability in the role. Beyond his striking physical suitability, Hamm is, without question, an actor of immense talent and depth, a fact finally recognized with the prestigious Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series Emmy Award in 2015 for the show’s emotionally resonant final season. His ability to inhabit the complexities of Draper, a character both enigmatic and vulnerable, cemented his status as a leading dramatic force, proving his magnetism extended far beyond mere period appropriateness.

The upcoming HBO Max film, No Sudden Move, promises a star-studded ensemble cast, featuring Hamm alongside acclaimed actors such as Don Cheadle, Benicio Del Toro, David Harbour, and Ray Liotta. This gathering of formidable talent under the direction of the prolific Steven Soderbergh signals a high-caliber cinematic event. As reported by our trusted sister site Deadline, the intricate plot of the movie revolves around a group of “small-time criminals who are hired to steal what they mistakenly believe is a simple document.” However, when their meticulously planned operation spirals horribly awry, their subsequent quest to uncover the identities of their shadowy employers—and the true, ultimate purpose behind the heist—propels them through the various echelons of a “race-torn, rapidly changing city.” This vivid description hints at a gritty, socially conscious thriller, set against the backdrop of a pivotal moment in American history where urban landscapes were undergoing significant demographic and cultural shifts. Soderbergh’s signature style of intelligent, character-driven thrillers, often with intricate plots and moral ambiguities, is perfectly suited for this premise, promising a film that is both intellectually stimulating and viscerally engaging.

Jon Hamm’s remarkable ability to embody the gravitas and sophisticated charm of a bygone era makes him an ideal choice for roles set in the mid-20th century. Beyond mere physical resemblance, it is his nuanced acting, his commanding presence, and his innate understanding of the cultural sensibilities of the 1950s and 60s that truly set him apart. He possesses a classic Hollywood appeal, reminiscent of the leading men of that golden age, yet infused with a modern sensibility that keeps his performances fresh and relatable. His turn in No Sudden Move is more than just a costume; it’s a deep dive into character and period, allowing him to explore the complexities of a man operating within a specific historical and social context. This film provides another perfect canvas for Hamm to demonstrate his versatility within the period drama genre, showcasing how well he can adapt to different facets of an era, from the slick advertising world of New York to the shadowy criminal underbelly of a changing metropolis.

While fans are undoubtedly thrilled to see Jon Hamm once again donning a sharp suit and fedora, harking back to his iconic Mad Men aesthetic for No Sudden Move, his upcoming appearances on the big screen will showcase a distinctly modern transformation. His next significant role sees him as a vice admiral in the highly anticipated new Tom Cruise film, Top Gun: Maverick — a direct sequel and update to the beloved 1986 smash hit, which is slated for release in 2021. This stark contrast underscores Hamm’s impressive range and his refusal to be typecast, seamlessly transitioning from sophisticated mid-century dramas to high-octane contemporary action. In an exclusive interview with HollywoodLife.com at the Mercedes Benz Academy Awards viewing party on February 9, 2020, Jon enthusiastically shared his experience: “It was a phenomenal experience working with Tom. Really, really enjoyed it. He’s such a great guy and he’s such a wonderful actor.” This collaboration with a Hollywood legend like Tom Cruise highlights Hamm’s growing stature and his ability to hold his own alongside any performer, regardless of genre or era.

The excitement surrounding Hamm’s role in Top Gun: Maverick stems not only from the revival of a classic franchise but also from the opportunity to witness his versatility. Stepping into a contemporary military uniform, a far cry from the tailored suits of the 1950s, allows him to project a different kind of authority and gravitas. This role will undoubtedly further solidify his reputation as an actor who can command the screen in any setting, whether he’s navigating complex ethical dilemmas in a boardroom or commanding a fighter jet squadron. His career trajectory demonstrates a deliberate choice to explore diverse characters and narratives, ensuring that he remains an intriguing and dynamic presence in Hollywood. From the cerebral intensity of Don Draper to the action-packed world of Top Gun, Hamm consistently delivers performances that are both engaging and memorable, proving his mettle across a wide spectrum of cinematic experiences.

Beyond the immediate buzz of his film projects, Jon Hamm’s contribution to television and film has consistently showcased a dedication to his craft. His ability to infuse even secondary characters with depth and personality ensures that he is always a compelling presence. Whether it’s a dramatic turn in a period piece, a comedic role that highlights his sharp wit, or a supporting part that elevates an entire ensemble, Hamm approaches each project with a commitment that resonates with audiences and critics alike. His distinctive voice, his thoughtful delivery, and his magnetic screen presence make him a consistently watchable actor, cementing his place as one of the most respected talents in the industry today. The recurring theme throughout his career is his effortless ability to convey complex emotions and subtle nuances, making him particularly adept at portraying characters who carry a weight of internal conflict, a hallmark seen in both Don Draper and now potentially in his role within the intricate world of No Sudden Move.

Jon Hamm’s natural elegance and commanding screen presence have firmly established him as an actor uniquely suited for roles that transport audiences back in time. His physical attributes and demeanor perfectly align with the sophisticated, often enigmatic figures that populated the mid-20th century, making period dramas a natural fit for his talents. Yet, his career is also a testament to his versatility, showing that he is far from confined to a single type of role or era. From the intricate narratives of independent films to blockbuster action franchises, Hamm continuously demonstrates his acting prowess and his capacity to inhabit a wide array of characters. This balance between excelling in historically rich settings and seamlessly transitioning to modern-day narratives speaks volumes about his artistic range and enduring appeal in an ever-evolving industry. Audiences are consistently drawn to his performances, eager to see how he will next transform himself, whether it’s within the meticulously crafted world of a 1950s crime thriller or the adrenaline-fueled skies of a contemporary military epic.