S5E1 — 'A Little Kiss Part 1'

About this episode

The episode discusses the season five premiere of Mad Men, exploring character dynamics and behind-the-scenes insights.

It’s season five, baby! And we’re back with A Little Kiss Part 1 , the two-part premiere that gave us a Zubi Zubi Zoom into Don Draper’s new life. And all the weird vibes that come with it. On this episode of Mad Men Men , Jon Negroni, Will Ashton, and Mike Overhulse reunite to talk about Megan’s infamous birthday serenade, why Pete Campbell continues to be the show’s most interesting character, and what Joan’s mom and a certain baby’s butt have in common. Oh, and the introduction of the most legendary character in the entire series...that's right, BOBBY 5. We dive into the real-life inspiration behind the shocking protest scene, AMC’s behind-the-scenes budget drama, and how this premiere marks a turning point in the show’s tone, aesthetic, and yes, hairlines. Also: the debut of Mike’s new microphone. It’s a whole event. In case this is your first time tuning in, Mad Men Men recaps Mad Men through the lens of three different viewers: a first-timer, a rewatcher, and someone who watches the show instead of forming healthy adult friendships. You know who you are. So whether you’re Team Peggy, Team Megan, or just…

People in this episode

Hosts: Jon Negroni, Will Ashton, Mike Overhulse

Topics covered

• Mad Men
• season premiere
• character analysis
• cultural references
• show tone
• behind-the-scenes

Keywords

• Mad Men
• Don Draper
• Megan's birthday
• Pete Campbell
• Bobbie 5
• protest scene
• AMC
• show analysis

Mentioned in this episode

Books & works: Mad Men

More episodes of Mad Men Men

• S5E8 – 'Lady Lazarus' · June 11, 2026 · 44 min
• S5E7 – 'At the Codfish Ball' · March 18, 2026 · 49 min
• S5E6 – 'Far Away Places' · March 10, 2026 · 54 min
• S5E5 – 'Signal 30' · October 2, 2025 · 1h 5m
• S5E4 – 'Mystery Date' · September 24, 2025 · 1h 2m
• S5E3 – 'Tea Leaves' · September 16, 2025 · 44 min