Jessica Paré
Biography
Jessica Paré is a Canadian actress and singer, best known for her captivating role as Megan Draper on the critically acclaimed television series Mad Men. Born on December 5, 1982, in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, Paré grew up in a French-speaking family, which contributed to her fluency in both English and French.
Raised in the culturally rich city of Montreal, she developed a passion for the arts from an early age. Paré attended the renowned Dawson College and later enrolled at the Montreal-based National Theatre School of Canada, where she honed her acting skills.
Early Career
Jessica Paré's acting career began in the late 1990s, with early television appearances and small roles in films. She made her acting debut in 1999, at the age of 17, with a role in the Canadian TV series Radio Free Roscoe. This was followed by a role in The L Word (2005) in which she portrayed a love interest, opening up opportunities in both television and film.
Her early work in Canadian productions helped her gain recognition in her home country. Paré’s versatility, combining both comedic and dramatic skills, began to make her a sought-after actress in both English- and French-language roles.
Breakthrough Role: Mad Men (2007-2015)
Jessica Paré's breakthrough came when she was cast as Megan Draper, the second wife of Don Draper, played by Jon Hamm, on the hit AMC series Mad Men. She joined the show in its fifth season and quickly became a fan favorite, earning widespread recognition for her portrayal of the glamorous and complex character. Megan Draper’s evolution from a secretary to a successful actress was central to the narrative, with Paré skillfully balancing the role's emotional depth and glamorous charm.
One of the defining moments of her character was the unforgettable scene in the season 5 premiere, where Megan performed the French song "Zou Bisou Bisou" at Don's birthday party. This scene became iconic, showcasing Paré’s musical talents as well as her charisma. Her portrayal of Megan Draper earned her critical acclaim and solidified her place in television history.
Film Career
Alongside her success on Mad Men, Jessica Paré’s career expanded into film. She starred in several movies, including Suck (2009), a horror-comedy in which she played a member of a rock band turned vampire, and The Trotsky (2009), a critically praised indie film where she portrayed a love interest to a teenage Marxist.
Paré's filmography also includes roles in Stardom (2000), Hot Tub Time Machine (2010), and La Voie Humaine (2011), which allowed her to showcase her versatility across a range of genres. Her ability to transition between lighthearted and serious roles made her a prominent actress in both Hollywood and Canadian cinema.
Other Projects and Musical Career
In addition to her acting career, Paré is also a talented singer. She released an album titled "Jessica Paré's Sunshine" in 2013, which received positive reviews for its mellow and retro-inspired sound. Music has always been an important part of her artistic expression, and her performance of "Zou Bisou Bisou" in Mad Men showcased her vocal abilities to a larger audience.
Paré has also been involved in charity work, supporting causes such as women’s rights and humanitarian efforts. She has been vocal about the importance of representation for women in both film and television.
Recent Work and Personal Life
After her time on Mad Men, Jessica Paré has continued to take on diverse roles in television, including appearances in The Romanoffs (2018), a series by Matthew Weiner, the creator of Mad Men. She has also been involved in stage productions and voiced characters in animated series.
On a personal level, Paré has kept a relatively low profile. She was previously married to musician and director John Kastner, with whom she shares a son. Despite her fame, Paré values her privacy and has focused on both her professional career and her personal life outside the public eye.
