Waiting for “Mad Men” to return is probably about as tedious and dispiriting as being married to Pete Campbell. After a juggernaut fifth season that pretty much benched the rest of non-“Breaking Bad” television, we’ve been laboring through a small-screen dry spell with only Lena Dunham to keep the party alive (a smooth bit of scheduling from HBO that ensured “Girls” an unwavering spotlight).
Fortunately, with only a month to go before our reunion with Sterling Cooper Draper (Pryce?), AMC has released the first promotional teaser, titled “Affair” (not an unfamiliar concept to Don Draper et al., and apt given his trademark eyebrow-raising in the final frames of last season). Unfortunately, what qualifies for teaser material is not the bounty of giveaways one hopes for. With a montage of images from some decadent party or other, and the tagline “You’re invited to the affair of the year,” spoilers are meticulously avoided. The only omission from the main lineup is Elisabeth Moss’ Peggy, whose future on the show has been enigmatic ever since she jumped ship from SCDP in a particularly heart-wrenching episode last season. Creator Matthew Weiner has, however, reassured Olson fans that Moss will be “showing up to work” next season).
In other teaser news, “Game of Thrones,” which has forgone any promotional subtlety in favor of a full-blown trailer of “Lord of the Rings” proportions, has further plugged its third season with the release of five new stills via Collider. Fans can rest assured that flowing hair and steely expressions are still in vogue in Westeros and Essos this year. “Game of Thrones” is back on HBO March 31st, while “Mad Men” airs on AMC April 7th. Prepare your couch accordingly.