The final season of smash hit drama Mad Men is to be split into two parts, it has been confirmed. Network AMC has revealed that the show, which propelled Jon Hamm to fame when it debuted seven years ago, will be expanded to fourteen episodes – but they will be spread out across two years, not one.
The first seven episodes will be broadcast in spring 2014, and the second seven will follow one year later. They will all, however, be technically from the same season.
“This approach has worked well for many programmes across multiple networks, and most recently for us with Breaking Bad, which attracted nearly double the number of viewers to its second half premiere than had watched any previous episode,” said AMC president Charlie Collier.
Mad Men’s final season is being split in two (AMC)
“We are determined to bring Mad Men a similar showcase. In an era where high-end content is savoured and analysed, and catch-up time is used well to drive back to live events, we believe this is the best way to release the now 14 episodes that remain of this iconic series.”
Executive producer Matthew Weiner backed up the decision, adding:
“We plan to take advantage of this chance to have a more elaborate story told in two parts, which can resonate a little bit longer in the minds of our audience.
“The writers, cast and other artists welcome this unique manner of ending this unique experience.”
