Actor Jon Hamm, renowned for his groundbreaking role as Don Draper in the acclaimed AMC series Mad Men, is set to receive a prestigious accolade. On Friday night, Hamm will be honored as the 2025 Man of the Year by Harvard University's esteemed Hasty Pudding Theatricals. This distinction celebrates individuals who have made significant impacts on the entertainment industry.
Hasty Pudding Theatricals, a revered institution dating back to 1844, is celebrated as one of the oldest theater groups still in operation today. Known for its vibrant performances and rich history, the group will present Hamm with the iconic Pudding Pot in a lively roast ceremony, followed by a staging of their latest production, 101 Damnations.
Producer Willow Woodward humorously commented, “Let's hope our roast doesn’t give him any heart palpitations — he’s had enough drama with that,” referencing Hamm’s intense portrayal in the Paramount+ series Landman. Woodward expressed confidence in Hamm's ability to take the stage, equating his performance potential to the grit of Texas oil fields.
Jon Hamm's illustrious career is marked by numerous accolades and a versatile array of roles. He has garnered critical acclaim and multiple nominations, including Emmy, Golden Globe, and Screen Actors Guild Award nods for his role as Sheriff Roy Tillman in the FX series Fargo. Beyond television, Hamm has demonstrated his acting prowess in films such as Bad Times at the El Royale and has showcased his comedic talents as a host on Saturday Night Live on three occasions.
Past recipients of the Man of the Year award have ranged from Barry Keoghan in 2024, Bob Odenkirk in 2023, to Jason Bateman in 2022, illustrating the diverse talents celebrated by Hasty Pudding Theatricals.
In conjunction with this honor, the theater group also announced its Woman of the Year, awarding the title to the talented Cynthia Erivo, famed for her performance in Wicked. She is scheduled to receive her accolade on February 6, continuing the tradition of highlighting remarkable contributions to the arts.
This acknowledgment by Harvard’s historic theatrical group further cements Jon Hamm's legacy in the entertainment world. As actors and live performers, such recognitions play a pivotal role in celebrating artistic achievements and inspiring future contributions within the industry.
