Elisabeth Moss: There’s more to be revealed about Peggy and Don

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Granted, it has been a while, but do you remember Peggy Olson’s jaw dropping when Don Draper sprung his engagement news on the folks at Sterling Cooper Draper Pryce in the Season 4 finale of “Mad Men”?

Turns out that reaction didn’t involve much acting on the part of Elisabeth Moss, the Emmy-nominated actress who so memorably brings Olson to life.

“Oh, yes, reading that script, that moment came as a complete surprise,” Moss says. “And I think Peggy’s reaction is there as a stand-in for the audience too. ‘You’re what?’”

Some dedicated “Mad Men” bloggers have suggested that Peggy’s reaction betrays a hint of jealousy and concern that she might lose her place as Don’s confidante, particularly after their memorable (albeit platonic) night together in the episode “The Suitcase.”

“I think that’s a dangerous thing to say,” Moss says. “People are quick to think that Don and Peggy are an item that way. There are many forms of jealousy. [Don’s fiancee] Megan’s a beautiful woman. I don’t think Peggy wants to be the one engaged to Don. It’s just sort of a natural female jealousy.”

But will Don and Megan still be engaged -- or perhaps married -- when “Mad Men” returns for its fifth season in March?

Moss isn’t spilling the beans. But she does offer a tantalizing clue that tracks back to Peggy’s initial shock.

“I think there’s probably more to be revealed as to why she reacts that way,” Moss says, smiling. “But … um … that’s probably all I should say on the subject.”

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-- Glenn Whipp