What it boils down to is that I can’t stand the main character, Don Draper, ad whiz, ladies man and all around despicable guy. Sure, they try to explain how he became such a cold-hearted SOB in later episodes. But my heart hasn’t softened. I’ve tried to figure out why. He isn’t the first rotten human being to carry a TV series. Look at Dexter. He’s a serial killer. But he’s interesting to watch. And I kinda like him. Maybe it’s because I’ve worked with guys like Draper. My first job out of college was in a macho arena (wargame simulations for the defense industry - I know, I know, I can’t believe it either). Even though it was decades after Mad Men took place, I dealt with rampant sexist attitudes. Sure, I had the benefit of anti-harassment laws on my side. But still. Having to stick up for myself day in and day out took its toll. Who knew that the toll would include a visceral repulsion to what might be a high-quality show? So let them have their Nixon jokes, greasy hair product, and pointy-bra secretaries. They'll surely win more Emmys and Golden Globes. But me, I’ll stick with nasty characters who don't make my skin crawl.
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