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Jessica Paré, the Canadian actress who became a household name thanks to her breakout role in Mad Men, has carved out an impressive career across television and film. Known for her striking beauty and charismatic screen presence, Paré has built a reputation not only as a talented actress but also as a musician and a feminist voice in the entertainment industry.
Early Life and Rise to Fame
Born on December 5, 1980, in Montreal, Quebec, Jessica Paré grew up in a family that valued education and the arts. Her father, Anthony Paré, was the chair of the education department at McGill University, while her mother, Louise Mercier, worked as a conference interpreter. Raised in a bilingual, French-Canadian household, Paré speaks both French and English fluently, a skill that would later serve her well in her career.
It was during her high school years that Paré got her first taste of acting, landing a small role in the television film Bonanno: A Godfather’s Story. This experience ignited her passion for acting, leading her to leave Dawson College’s fine arts program to pursue her dream full-time. The decision soon paid off when she was cast as the lead in Denys Arcand’s 2000 satirical film Stardom, which propelled her into the spotlight as the Canadian film industry’s newest “it girl.”
A Career in Film and Television
Following the success of Stardom, Paré starred in the Sundance darling Lost and Delirious (2001), earning critical praise for her portrayal of a young woman navigating a tumultuous romance at a boarding school. Though the film garnered mixed reviews, Paré’s performance was widely celebrated, solidifying her reputation as a rising star.
Over the next several years, Paré appeared in a string of film and television roles, including the Hollywood thriller Wicker Park (2004) and the miniseries Napoleon (2002). She continued to build her resume with roles in indie films like the vampire horror-comedy Suck (2009), for which she learned to play the bass guitar, and the cult classic Hot Tub Time Machine (2010).
But it wasn’t until she joined the cast of Mad Men in 2010 that Paré’s star truly began to rise on an international scale.
The Mad Men Era: Becoming Megan Draper
Jessica Paré’s most iconic role came when she was cast as Megan Calvet, the second wife of Don Draper (Jon Hamm), in AMC’s critically acclaimed series Mad Men. Her character, a former secretary who becomes an aspiring actress, quickly became a fan favourite, particularly after her memorable performance of the 1960s hit song “Zou Bisou Bisou” in the Season 5 premiere. Paré’s sultry rendition of the song became a pop culture moment, with the recording even being released on vinyl.
Her portrayal of Megan Draper was nuanced, capturing the complexities of being both a muse and a modern woman trying to find her own identity in a world dominated by men. During her time on Mad Men, Paré earned critical acclaim and enjoyed widespread recognition, with the show’s success elevating her to new heights.
While on Mad Men, Paré reportedly earned a salary of $20,000 per episode, a testament to the value she brought to one of the most celebrated TV dramas of its time.
Moving to SEAL Team and New Ventures
After Mad Men concluded, Jessica Paré transitioned to another high-profile role, joining the CBS military drama SEAL Team in 2017. Playing Amanda Ellis, the CIA liaison to the Bravo Team, Paré’s character brought a new level of intensity and gravitas to the show. Throughout her time on the SEAL Team, Paré showcased her versatility, moving from a 1960s housewife to a modern-day intelligence operative.
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Her work on SEAL extended beyond acting, as she also directed episodes of the series, including “All Bravo Stations,” demonstrating her growing interest in working behind the camera.
Personal Life and Advocacy
In addition to her successful career, Paré has also been outspoken about her personal beliefs, including her identity as a feminist. In an interview with Fashion magazine, Paré explained, “Of course, I’m a feminist. If you’re not for the equal treatment of men and women, then you’re a fascist.” Her views reflect her commitment to advocating for gender equality both on-screen and off.
Paré’s personal life has also garnered attention. She was previously married to writer and producer Joseph M. Smith from 2007 to 2010. In 2013, she began dating musician John Kastner, with whom she welcomed a son, Blues Anthony Paré Kastner, in 2015.
Jessica Paré’s Legacy and Net Worth
With a net worth of $3 million, Jessica Paré has proven her staying power in an industry known for fleeting fame. Her roles in Mad Men and SEAL Team have solidified her as a versatile actress capable of balancing both drama and comedy, while her growing work as a director points to a future where she’ll continue to push creative boundaries.
From her beginnings as a Montreal native to her rise as a star in Hollywood, Paré’s journey is a testament to hard work, talent, and the ability to adapt in a constantly evolving industry. With her legacy firmly intact, fans can only wonder what new projects and surprises Jessica Paré has in store.