Pete Campbell from Mad Men is a character that viewers love to hate, and perhaps secretly relate to. In a revealing interview, Vincent Kartheiser, the actor who masterfully portrayed Pete throughout the series, delves into the complexities of this ambitious yet deeply flawed advertising executive. Kartheiser offers insights into Pete’s motivations, his tumultuous relationships, and ultimately, his seemingly inescapable unhappiness, providing a nuanced understanding of why Pete Campbell remains such a compelling figure in television drama.
One of the most striking aspects of Pete Campbell is his relatability, despite his often unlikeable behavior. Kartheiser points out the common thread that connects Pete to both Don Draper and the audience: “None of us really have anything, we’re all just trying to fill this spot inside of us with things and work and people.” This observation cuts to the core of the human condition, suggesting that Pete’s relentless pursuit of success and recognition stems from a deeper, universal void. This inherent emptiness, according to Kartheiser, is something Don Draper understands all too well, creating an uncomfortable sense of recognition between the two men.
The interview also touches upon the physicality of the role, specifically the memorable fight scene between Pete and Lane Pryce. Kartheiser expresses his enjoyment of physical acting, describing the fight as a “blast.” He speaks fondly of Jared Harris, who played Lane, highlighting their camaraderie on set. The anecdote about Harris creating a mock boxing poster for the two actors underscores the positive atmosphere behind the scenes, even when portraying intense on-screen conflict.
A particularly poignant moment in the interview revolves around Pete’s line in the elevator: “We’re at work. We’re meant to be friends.” This line resonates deeply with viewers, highlighting the tragic nature of workplace relationships and Pete’s yearning for genuine connection. However, Kartheiser offers a less sympathetic interpretation of this moment. He argues that Pete’s plea for friendship rings hollow because he himself never fostered true friendships in the office. According to Kartheiser, Pete’s competitive nature and self-serving behavior prevented him from cultivating genuine bonds with his colleagues. In this light, Pete’s elevator lament comes across as less a heartfelt cry for connection and more a “snivelling child” moment of self-pity, potentially marking a turning point for his character.
Despite portraying such a recognizable character, Kartheiser reveals a surprising level of anonymity in public. He recounts rarely being recognized and never having his lines quoted back to him, except for the occasional meme reference. The most significant fan encounter he describes is someone naming their child “Campbell” after Pete Campbell, a testament to the character’s lasting impact, even if not always for positive reasons. This anecdote illustrates the complex relationship viewers have with Pete – a character often criticized but undeniably memorable.
Finally, the interview addresses the ultimate question of Pete Campbell’s happiness. Kartheiser’s response is decidedly pessimistic, reflecting a nuanced understanding of the show’s overall themes. He dismisses the idea of a “happily ever after” for Pete or any of the Mad Men characters. While acknowledging the audience’s desire for Pete to find peace, Kartheiser suggests a more cyclical and realistic trajectory. He posits that Pete’s “journey of torment” is likely ongoing, punctuated by brief periods of stability before inevitably descending back into chaos. This interpretation aligns with the show’s exploration of existential angst and the perpetual search for meaning, suggesting that Pete Campbell’s story, like life itself, is one of continuous struggle rather than resolution. Kartheiser concludes that Pete, like the other characters, is destined to continue “lashing out or misbehaving and try to find meaning and enjoyment and excitement,” forever caught in a cycle of seeking and perhaps never truly finding lasting contentment.
