Home Creators Posts Import Register Favorites Logout

Content

Files

Mad Men 6x06

________________________ patreon - https://www.patreon.com/LMreactions twitter - https://twitter.com/LMreaction tv time - lola - skysstillblue, milena - oneofthe100

Comments

Subwoolfer

This episode is cathartic. Finally Don gets called out for his selfish behavior by Joan. And yet we the audience are whiplashed by immediately getting to see him as the hero when Roger gives the creatives the details

Taya

As usual you have acted impulsively AND HARMED THE COMPANY IRREPARABLY!!!

Kara

It's time to start saying it: Fargo deserves a slot on the long show slot poll. Let me know if you agree! We've definitely worked through most of the top-tier "prestige" shows but there are still gems that A) haven't been watched on the channel and B) the girls haven't watched in their own time. Fargo is one of them. It's an anthology show - each season tells a self-contained story - seasons vary in quality but 1, 2 and 5 are excellent television (2 is truly special). For my money, it's the last great long television show the channel hasn't watched. (I think Barry is good, but not Great). Fargo the show is "based" (its a separate story) on Fargo the movie, a beloved film from the Coen Brothers. The channel just covered No Country For Old Men, another Coen Brothers film. Each season is a pastiche of different elements from Coen Brothers movies, so watching Fargo (movie) in a movie slot first and then riding into the TV show would be a really fun experience. Do you wanna watch a show that does a really good job at taking the tone and themes of Coen Brothers movies and stretch it into excellent series of TV? That's Fargo! tbh I'm still gagged every time I remember we somehow got Mad Men to win a poll lol. What a ride. Still 1.5 seasons left 🙏🙏

Wojo

Roger makes an effort for one episode and it ends with them doubling their company's size and landing a massive car account. He'd probably be the CEO of Earth by now if he worked like this in previous seasons.

JBK405

One of those tiny things that strikes a very personal note with me is when Ted complains about how everybody calls him "nice". Because that's something I get a lot and it can be INFURIATING, because it's often for actions that aren't "nice". At work I often make the decision to be calm, polite, and friendly to a difficult customer because I want to get their money and keep their future business, and afterwards my co-workers say how nice I am. And being nice has nothing to do with it. It's good business sense and GREED that keeps me smiling, and I hate how it's dismissed as just "being nice". I've never quite understood why the evaluation and decision to go public was kept secret from Don. I mean the in-universe rationale for the other partners. They say that they don't think Don cares as much about money as they do -- which I agree is correct -- but he's not OPPOSED to money or anything like that. Did they think he would try to block it or something like that? For what reason? It only makes sense from the writing perspective of setting up this big disaster. That's one of the biggest parts of the series that never clicked for me, and I'm still waiting for somebody to explain to me "Pete & Joan & Roger & Bert thought that..." If Joan still has a 5% ownership share, and her shares would have been worth $1 million at $9 a share, then at $11 a share the entire company was valued at approximately $25 million. That's equal to about $230,000,000 today. Does that make them one of the biggest companies in the world? No. Even in the top 1000? Still no. But does it make them Rich? Heck yes. If you're looking for LONG SHOWS, I'll recommend the two franchises that just go and go (and go): "Star Trek" and "Stargate". Star Trek at this point has nearly 1,000 episodes across different series, with 13 movies (+ Galaxy Quest). Stargate has 350 episodes and three movies. If you start either franchise, you are SET FOR LIFE.

Eric Viola

Peggy's reaction to the Don/Ted merger reveal must've felt like if you found out your crush randomly became friends with your Dad.

Sekraan

I never rewatched that show because I felt like it had more filler and soap than most "prestige" drama from the era. That being said, it had some incredible moments and the finale is still one of my favourite series finales of all time. Maybe I'll get around rewatching it when I feel closer to the grave myself.

T0ast

there is still deadwood and rome for older hbo prestige shows

QuasiRNG

Indeed! And I think one could put Oz in there. Maybe kind of like a precursor to the prestige/golden era

QuasiRNG

In terms of shows, would also add Halt and Catch Fire as a possible follow-up. Not prestige tv but really good!

on crip ...

shareholders -> enshittification (ad company version) Don would be against it bc he'd be inviting more creative constraints // losing ability to fire clients, or merge w/ another company on a whim

QuasiRNG

Some thoughts on possible follow-up long shows that others might not have mentioned yet. 1) Halt and Catch Fire -- period drama 1980s ( start of the Personal Computer age). Personally see the influence of mad men on this show. 2) Boardwalk Empire -- set in prohibition era 1920s 3) Oz -- deep dive into prisons 4) The Shield -- gritty police/politics drama 5) Justified -- modern western drama

Mike

The evil twin episode to "Shut the door. Have a seat." There's part of me that can really feel how this was just an excuse to get Elizabeth Moss and Jon Hamm back on set together, but I think the show lampshades the "we're doing this again?" well enough that it works. Either way, that reveal of Don in Ted's office is so sinister. Great stuff. Almost as great as Pete falling down the stairs. Lol oh and Don telling Arnie in the elevator that he doesn't believe in fate, because you make your own luck -- the evening after Roger saved his ass out of nowhere with Jaguar & Chevy -- never fails to get a laugh out of me.

Mike

Shoutout to Tarzan

Mike

Have they watched The Americans?

Berezant

And here I thought I was the only one wishing for Halt and Catch Fire! Such a terrific show

Mike

Are we stumping for new shows already? Have they watched The Americans? Will also second Quasirng on Halt & Catch Fire. And I know it would never win a poll, but Treme is so underrated.

Mike

A reverse Alicent Hightower

Mike

Agree w/ crip. Don would have hated the idea of an IPO.

trickybirb

Since everyone's throwing in a recommendation I'll add mine: if you want to watch a completed prestige drama that will give you existential angst, have you laughing and crying, and help you live with the absurd, then watch The Leftovers. It's written by Damon Lindelof (writer for Lost), and stars Justin Theroux and Carrie Coon. It was under the radar when it came out, but it has some of the best writing, acting, and characters on TV. The soundtrack by Max Richter is great as well. The premise is that 2% of the world's population just disappears suddenly in an instant without explanation. I should mention that it can be pretty heavy, but it's also hilarious... it's hard to explain but you'll know it when you see it

Truemeathead

One Piece! One Piece! One Piece! Lol

Rico

Twin Peaks reactions would feed generations

Mark M

The merger reminds me a lot of the same thing in the US Office with the Stamford branch. I get why they did it but it's a shame to lose the independent Jim/Peggy storyline. Vincent Kartheiser's so good at the comedic scenes, his fall down the stairs and outrage are funny. I like seeing Roger get his mojo back too. Never really liked the Trudy's dad storyline though, everyone feels out of character. Both plotlines feel a bit contrived tbh, I just enjoy the main one more.

Leome

Deadwood definitely one of the last prestigious HBO shows for you to watch

Sebastian

It's a brilliant show right up their alley, but I'm pretty sure one or both of them have seen it already.

Robert

darn don like tarzan swining from vine to vine

Sebastian

I will die on this hill with you, Jamie. Yeah, SFU is a little soapy at times, but it's just such a better fit for them than Oz or The Shield or fucking Star Trek or whatever. I just can't picture them not adoring it.

Sebastian

I love this episode, and it's where season 6 gets top tier for me. Some people think it's rushed, and I can get that, but I love how sudden and surprising the merger is. Also, I don't think the girls noticed it, but fantasy-Ted reading "Something" by Ralph Waldo Emerson is an incredible sight gag. It almost borders on sitcommy, but I love it.

Kev

The fantasy scene is peak comedy to me. Pete has had a very similar one with Beth in S5, Don has probably had a bunch of them, but something about Peggy's is so humorous to me, the way she says "I just want you to kiss me". I realized, the important formula is that Peggy's character has developed so much from the beginning of the show, but she retains that juvenile romantic quality which is what allows it to be comedic, because we don't feel bad for laughing at her since she can handle herself otherwise. Whereas something like, for example, her imitating bye bye birdie in the mirror in S3 is so vulnerable it makes your heart hurt.

Biberius Caldius Mero

I'm surprised Milena didn't bring up that with the merger, Peggy and Stan are going to be working together again. Obviously that's the whole reason why the writers made the merger happen in the first place! Also, seconding the Fargo recommendation! And once there are no more prestige dramas to watch, it'll be time for comedies.

bondbond53

I honestly would love you guys to react to more iconic TV shows of the past. Sure maybe not prestige TV but you guys are actually not as fussed as long as it's good characters, contrary to what some of your fans might say. That's to say that I want to see your reaction to "Sex and the City"

Mark M

They said the same thing when Sopranos was coming to an end, then we got Mad Men. Don't give up hope!

QuasiRNG

Could be mistaken but I think they have seen it (outside the channel). Just from comments I have heard in reactions.

Sebastian

This is the first time I've watched this episode and really felt Joan's perspective. I always felt like she was really harsh towards Don, especially since he's the one who tried to stand up for her during the initial Herb debacle, and since Herb is, admittedly, a creep. Maybe it's because the girls have been so focused on her storyline, but this time around it really hit me what a reckless selfish thing it was for Don to just fire their largest client like that because his feelings got hurt.

Clay F

+1 for Halt and Catch Fire. +1 for Boardwalk Empire.

Clay F

I was told they watched The Americans but don't know. I love that series.

Clay F

+1 for The Americans but I think they've seen it? +1 fpr Halt & Catch Fire

Sebastian

Haha yeah it's honestly shocking how many immature knuckleheads watch the male antihero prestige shows without realizing the main characters are largely being satirized.

Kara

They've seen the Leftovers (sadly) and loved it. Would have been perfect yeah.

Kara

@Kev: To build it works even better on rewatch because you know it's coming and it's completely obvious. See previous episodes: Ted complaining after winning Heinz ketchup, biz being make or break based on holding small accounts but unable to jump up to big accounts without taking huge risks that large firms can tank (that will kill small firms). The theme of "being the biggest fish in the smallest pond" with nowhere else to go permeated the whole season so far (work, marriages, affairs etc).

Mike

@Kev without getting into spoilers, the characters this brings over to SCDP (including Peggy, obviously) are more than worth any awkward plotting. And I honestly appreciate how up-front the show is about how mechanical the plot feels. It's part of continuing pattern for Don. It makes sense on a character level, even if the trope is familiar -- both from Mad Men itself (S3 finale) and other shows (someone else referenced The Office's merger, and that's a perfect comp). And the scene with Don & Ted in the bar is thrilling enough to paper over any skepticism about the story. They really sell it.

Kara

Agree with everyone above. It's tough because SCDP is Don Draper still, so if he refuses they can't do anything. Not telling him is the smartest way to convince him - get the offer in and let Pete and Roger work him for weeks, ending with Bert. They would have won eventually, probably.

Dante

I do absolutely get where Joan was coming from but I also don't think it was all "for nothing" Getting Jaguar at the time still saved the company and is what made her a partner. Did she think they would just have Jaguar forever?

Kev

Anyone else notice Trudy's Disney face after Pete upsets her? Her lip quivers and her eyes flutter, but they never actually close.

Kev (edited)

Comment edits

2026-09-19 14:00 I wonder if there's something symbolic to Peggy being so excited to go to her boss' office and continue the affair she's ben fantasizing about, only to be slapped in the face with Don Draper's presence, who represents all those sins as well as her other vices (Don as Peggy's shadow?)
2026-02-12 21:07

Julien

I think the most important element in this analogy is that she left home (or ran away there from). Now she's being forced to go back. I think that matter more than the crush befriending dad.

Kev

Does anyone else remember that Joan rant for the noise of her bracelets jangling as she moves her hands? Iconic sound

Taya

I saw a shadow touch a shadow's hand

Taya

@Dante, I'm sure she'd feel differently if it were a "we" decision instead of a unilateral Don decision. Like if the partners all sat down and discussed whether or not to continue with Jaguar, and came to a mutual agreement. But since she had no choice in the matter, it devalues her sacrifice and what she went through to get it.

tilden katz

Number 6, Khaibit. The Shadow. Your shadowy double tied to memory and the conditioning of this and other lives. Yup, that's Don.

tilden katz

This is the first excellent episode of S6. Don swung that vine one more time at the end.

tilden katz

Fargo would be fantastic for LM.

tilden katz

Love Among the Ruins ref!!!!!!! My favorite espisode.

tilden katz

There is no 'excuse' to get Hamm n Moss together. Don and Peggy ARE Mad Men. That relationship is the one that truly matters. The rest is conversation.

tilden katz

SFU, or Fargo. Let's get on with it!

tilden katz

I back you 1 million percent on Fargo.

tilden katz

@Jamie Thats the main reason I subscribe to LM. I'm m stuck on the male perspective, and it's a nice change to see it from the other side, even if I don't agree.

tilden katz

Boardwalk Empire COULDA BEEN A CONTENDER. Scorsese, Buscemi, Terence Winter from The Sopranos, it was all there on the launching pad. But......... the main character is the least interesting one, and the storyline stops, and starts way too much.

tilden katz

@Taya Don blowing smoke again.

Eric Viola

Nah it's great all the way through

tilden katz

Pete last week: [Indignant] This is a shameful, SHAMEFUL day! Pete this week: [Disgusted] Saw him with a 200 pound negro woman. He is the gift that keeps on giving. Bless im.

Taya

S6 is dark. It's cringe. It's depressing. It's weird. And IT'S GREAT!!!!

Kev

Spoiler talk - Unir gb oevat hc Zryvan gnyxvat nobhg Wbna naq Crttl jbexvat gbtrgure. Gung vf na bssfubbg bs ure guvaxvat Crttl jvyy fgneg ure bja guvat, jurernf vagrerfgvatyl Crttl'f svany qrpvfvba vf npghnyyl gb fgnl chg naq xrrc jbexvat ure jnl hc gur ynqqre, juvyr Wbna vf gur obyq ragercerarhe. V unir nyjnlf jbaqrerq ubj gurl jvyy ernpg gb Wbna'f bssre, jvyy gurl pybpx vg nf gbb tbbq gb or gehr? Jvyy gurl or znq ng Fgna sbe gnyxvat Crttl bhg bs vg? Be jvyy gurl guvax bs Crttl nf abg arrqvat gb trg bhg bapr FP&C trgf nofbeorq? Ybyn qbrf oevat hc Crttl fgnlvat ng gur pbzcnal juvyr Qba yrnirf - Gurl jvyy ybir gur Niba rcvfbqr, cerqvpgnoyl jvyy ungr Crgr ohg V jbaqre vs gurl jvyy or n yvggyr znq ng Crttl gbb sbe 'qbhogvat' Wbna - Ybyn fnlf "FPQCPTP? Gung'f n zbhgushy", nyzbfg cerpvfryl dhbgvat Wbna va V oryvrir gur arkg rcvfbqr

tilden katz

My thought is that Don being a taciturn type of guy, doesn't really like being around anyone, so why did he choose to partner up with Ted, and his agency? Does he actually like/respect Ted that he sees them going places together, that they can't apart? He's not afraid to compete with him. And, the allure of getting Peggy back, wouldn't be enough of an incentive to be the main reason. So, again I ask, does Don find Ted agreeable enough, or is it purely convenience, that makes him amenable to such an arrangement?