I, sort of, had an inkling that this could happen, but I was hoping against hope that it wouldn't. Apparently, Bryan Batt aka Sal from Mad Men will not be returning next season, a move that somewhat makes sense. Sterling Cooper and possibly Draper is starting anew and Lucky Strikes is pivotal to its future. Downlow Lucky Strikes Jr. has to be pampered and seeing impeccably dressed, but thoroughly closeted Sal would serve as a constant reminder that Downlow tipped his hand. And Don doesn't need the distraction of knowing that DL Lucky Strikes Jr. is craving Sal at every moment and diverting that pent-up energy to being a pissy client. So, yeah, I can understand why Sal won't be back.
However, I absolutely adore Sal. Always have. The awkward kiss between he and Joan during the Nixon/Kennedy debates. His advice to Crane when he was fuming about his pay. His tentative drink with that Belle Jolie rep. His inviting Cosgrove home for a home-cooked meal, courtesy of 'girlfriend' Kitty. And season three, when he dipped his toe in the forbidden pool. All of the angst and sadness, yet the willingness to persevere despite the obstacles and prejudices. And personally, I hate that Sal left on such a sad note... getting totally hung out to dry by Don and ultimately, drowning his sorrows at a seedy cruising spot. Sal absolutely deserves better, but this is still the mid 60s, so like many marginalized groups, he will have to get by on crumbs.
So not fair.
However, I am hopeful that he will show up in future seasons. And hopefully, better fixed in terms of his personal and professional life. Maybe he will let go of Kitty so they both can have a good life. And even better, maybe he could pursue more filmmaking work or become an independent contractor in the creative field.
Anyway, Bryan Batt will be missed, but thank goodness the writers gave him some material to bite into in season three.
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