Kiernan Shipka Discusses Roles in ‘Industry’ and ‘Mad Men’
Kiernan Shipka has made notable contributions to two of television’s most talked-about series: Mad Men and Industry. The 26-year-old actress portrayed Sally Draper on Mad Men for seven seasons, captivating audiences with her performance as the observant daughter amid the complexities of adult life.
Kiernan Shipka’s Role in Mad Men
During her time on Mad Men, Shipka’s character experienced the tumultuous world of the 1960s. She witnessed the challenges of motherhood, addiction, and infidelity through her father’s actions. This role established her as a talented young actress in the industry.
Transition to Industry
After a successful run on Mad Men, Shipka starred in Netflix’s Chilling Adventures of Sabrina. Though the show garnered a following, Shipka sought more mature roles to redefine her career trajectory. Her next endeavor, Industry, marked her return to Sunday night television.
Industry Overview
Industry is an HBO series that portrays the high-stakes world of finance. As the show enters its fourth season, it undergoes significant changes, losing its original core with the dismantling of Pierpoint, the fictional bank. Only a few cast members from earlier seasons remain, including Myha’la, Marisa Abela, and Ken Leung.
Character Development
- Shipka plays Hailey, an assistant to a startup CEO, Max Minghella.
- Her character’s role evolves significantly throughout the season.
Shipka’s audition for Industry was driven by the show’s established reputation for exploring complex themes. She noted that the audition material was intense, piquing her interest in the character.
Challenges and Growth
Following Sabrina, Shipka contemplated her next steps. A mentor suggested she experience life outside of acting. This advice influenced her approach; she aimed to embrace the messy aspects of adulthood and channel them into her work.
Filming Experience
The production of Industry offered engaging moments, such as filming a nightclub scene in Cardiff, Wales. Shipka revealed that recreating an actual night out made the experience enjoyable, contrasting with the potentially awkward nature of such scenes.
Legacy of Mad Men
With Mad Men now available on HBO Max, Shipka finds renewed interest in her early role. Many viewers are discovering her performance as a young girl for the first time. She expresses gratitude for the lasting impact of the show and the opportunities it has afforded her as an actress.
Through her roles in Mad Men and Industry, Kiernan Shipka showcases her growth and versatility, establishing herself as a serious talent within the industry.
