Christina Hendricks, one of the most beloved actresses in Hollywood, rose to stardom with her iconic role as Joan Holloway on Mad Men. The sassy 60s secretary who rises to become a partner at an advertising agency captured the hearts of viewers everywhere and earned Hendricks critical acclaim, including Emmy nominations.
Known for her striking beauty, she became a cultural icon. In fact, a 2010 poll from Esquire magazine named her “the sexiest woman in the world.” But beyond her beauty and captivating performance, Hendricks’ journey to stardom was shaped by personal experiences. In an interview, she revealed that her character Joan shares her own vulnerability beneath the tough exterior.
Christina Hendricks revealed a personal connection with her character Joan
While her beauty and her role as Joan have made her a household name, Christina Hendricks herself often spoke about her own vulnerability. In a 2014 interview with The Guardian, she admits she shares some traits with her character. She shared,
I probably tend to get my feelings hurt more. I tend to take things personally.
She then confessed, “But I can only take so much, and then I jump back. I have strong survival skills.” Hendricks also reflected on her sensibility, much like Joan, she has had to balance emotion with resilience in a challenging world.
Her personal experience has undoubtedly influenced her portrayal of Joan, especially the character’s navigation in the male-dominated field. She admits Joan’s intelligence and charm were built through her determination to rise in an era of institutional sexism, which resonates with her own experience.
In reply to ever experiencing sexism in the entertainment industry, she said, “There’s s**ual harassment at work every single day, all day long.” She pointed this out, reflecting on the challenges women face in the industry. “Certainly in the respect and position [women], you feel like, ‘Am I allowed to ask these questions or contribute in this way?’ Society has conditioned you that way.”
Hendricks’ candid acknowledgment of asking for raises or recognition also reflected the limited means in the era of institutionalized sexism and unequal pay. If a woman goes in to ask for a raise, she’ll get it. But she’s thinking, ‘Do I deserve it? I’ve got to give a list of why I deserve it.’ Whereas a man will just go in and ask for a raise. It’s so scary,” Hendricks said, reflecting her own experience.
Christina Hendricks was dropped by her agency for taking the role of Joan Harris
Hendricks’ path to Mad Men wasn’t without its obstacles. At the time, she was juggling various television roles, but nothing had quite taken off. Then the script for Mad Men arrived. Both Hendricks and her manager were eager for her to take the role of Joan Harris, but her agency didn’t share the same enthusiasm.
Hendricks recalled, “They said, ‘It’s a period piece, it’s never going to go anywhere. We need you to make money, and this isn’t going to make money.’” Her agency dropped her as a client.
Despite this setback, Hendricks wasn’t deterred. She said, “I had been on several shows that were meant to be big, and they didn’t last. So, why not do the one you’re in love with?” The decision was a gamble that paid off. The first season of Mad Men premiered in 2007, quickly becoming a hit. Hendricks’ Joan was instantly adored, making her one of the most celebrated actresses of her generation.
Looking back, Hendricks’ choice to take a risk on Mad Men was more than just a career move. It was a move that would ultimately define her career and bring her lasting success.
Mad Men is streaming on Netflix.
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