Pete Campbell, portrayed masterfully by Vincent Kartheiser in the acclaimed series Mad Men, remains one of television’s most fascinatingly flawed characters. In a revealing interview, Kartheiser delves into the depths of Pete’s psyche, offering insights that resonate deeply with the human condition.
One of the core aspects of Pete’s character, as highlighted by Kartheiser, is his relatable sense of emptiness. “None of us really have anything, we’re all just trying to fill this spot inside of us with things and work and people,” Kartheiser reflects. This sentiment echoes Pete’s on-screen interactions, particularly his complex relationship with Don Draper. Pete sees a reflection of his own hollowness in Don, creating a dynamic of both envy and discomfort. This shared void, a universal aspect of the human experience, makes Pete Campbell profoundly relatable, despite his often unlikeable actions.
The interview also touches upon the physicality of the role, specifically referencing the infamous 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, emphasizing their camaraderie even amidst the intensity of the scene. The anecdote about Harris creating a mock boxing poster featuring the two actors underscores the playful spirit behind the on-screen drama.
Another poignant moment explored in the interview is Pete’s line, “We’re at work. We’re meant to be friends.” This line, delivered in the aftermath of office conflicts, encapsulates a tragic element of Pete’s character. However, Kartheiser offers a nuanced perspective, stating he feels little pity for Pete in this moment. He argues that Pete’s competitive nature and lack of genuine care for his colleagues’ success have hindered his ability to form true friendships. This self-awareness, or lack thereof, is central to Pete’s character, painting him as someone who desires respect and acknowledgment but struggles to reciprocate those sentiments. Kartheiser even describes Pete as a “snivelling child” in this scene, suggesting a potential turning point, or perhaps just a fleeting moment of vulnerability.
The interview playfully addresses Pete’s quotable lines, or rather, the lack thereof in public recognition. Despite the iconic “Not great, Bob!” meme associated with the show, Kartheiser reveals he rarely gets recognized or quoted directly. He shares an anecdote about a fan naming their child “Campbell” after Pete, highlighting the character’s cultural impact, even if direct quotes aren’t shouted in the streets.
Finally, the interview delves into the question of Pete’s ultimate happiness. Kartheiser offers a somewhat bleak but realistic outlook, stating, “I don’t think anyone goes on to be happy.” He clarifies that while Pete might find moments of peace, his underlying “journey of torment” is likely to continue. Kartheiser envisions a cyclical pattern for Pete, suggesting that any periods of contentment would be temporary, inevitably disrupted by work or personal complications, potentially leading to self-destructive behavior once again. This cyclical nature reinforces the idea of Pete Campbell as a perpetually restless and internally conflicted character, a portrayal that resonates with the ongoing struggles many face in their own lives.
In conclusion, Vincent Kartheiser’s insights provide a deeper understanding of Pete Campbell’s enduring appeal. He is not simply a villain or a caricature, but a complex individual grappling with universal human anxieties and desires. Pete’s journey, marked by ambition, insecurity, and a persistent search for meaning, ensures his place as a memorable and perpetually relevant character in the landscape of television drama, long after the Mad Men era has ended.
