“I like characters that are complex,” says Kiernan Shipka, the 15-year-old Mad Men star who all but steals the show these days as troubled teen Sally Draper. “Not everything has been peachy for Sally – she’s been strong through it all, she really is kind of a rock star.” The Chicago-born actor has a similar individualistic bent, wearing inventive looks from Miu Miu or Céline on the red carpet and kicking it with fellow teen trailblazers Tavi Gevinson and Chloë Grace Moretz. She’ll make the leap to fully-fledged stardom in 2015, starring in frenzied thriller February with Emma Roberts and indie drama Fan Girl. Shipka will be sad to leave Sally behind when Mad Men wraps this spring, but has learned a feminist strength from her character which will stand her in good stead to flip off the Hollywood sharks. “Sally’s flawed but real, that’s what makes her so amazing.”
What was your defining pop culture moment of 2014?
Kiernan Shipka: A defining moment for me personally, and also in pop culture, was Mad Men coming to an end. We finished filming in July, and I’d been on the show more than half my life. That, for me, was a major – and very bittersweet – moment.
What’s your favourite song of 2014?
Kiernan Shipka: A few of my favourites include “Ladder Song” by Lorde, “Style” by Taylor Swift, “Head Underwater” by Jenny Lewis, “Hi-Five” by Angel Olsen, and “Cut Your Bangs” by Radiator Hospital.
What new skill did you learn this year?
Kiernan Shipka: I learned how to play the harmonica.
What’s the most surprising thing we’d find out if we looked at your phone?
Kiernan Shipka: If you look at my camera roll, you’ll see I’m obsessed with taking photos of food.
Who should have been at number one on the Dazed 100?
Kiernan Shipka: Tavi Gevinson. I think she’s amazing.
Twitter: @kiernanshipka | Instagram: @kiernanshipka
Printed silk top by Ilaria Nistri, leather skirt by The Kooples, bracelet by Iosselliani, Hair Kylee Heath at The Wall Group, make-up Kirin Bhatty using Dior Beauty
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