Yes, I've heard of the 'Mad Men' comparisons, but I like to think 'The Hour' has its own distinctive voice. Although it is set in 1956, I have tried to give it a contemporary edge, and its themes of love, passion, romance, fury, professional jealousy, and personal failure are universal, I think.

Abi Morgan’s quote, "Yes, I've heard of the 'Mad Men' comparisons, but I like to think 'The Hour' has its own distinctive voice. Although it is set in 1956, I have tried to give it a contemporary edge, and its themes of love, passion, romance, fury, professional jealousy, and personal failure are universal, I think," reflects her intention to set her series apart from similar shows like Mad Men. Morgan acknowledges the comparisons but emphasizes that her show, The Hour, explores themes that transcend its historical setting. By incorporating universal emotions such as jealousy, failure, and love, she aims to make the story relatable to modern audiences.

The mention of professional jealousy is particularly interesting, as it highlights a key emotional dynamic in both the world of journalism and the broader human experience. Morgan emphasizes that even in a time like 1956, where the social norms and professional landscapes were vastly different, the emotions and struggles depicted in the show are still relevant today. The theme of personal failure also resonates with modern challenges, as it reflects how individual aspirations and shortcomings can shape one’s journey, regardless of era.

Morgan’s effort to infuse the series with a contemporary edge underscores her belief that while the show is rooted in the past, its themes are not confined to that time. This blending of the past and present allows the show to speak to the timeless nature of human emotions and relationships. Her focus on universal feelings and experiences aims to make The Hour feel fresh and relevant, not just for audiences interested in historical dramas, but for anyone who has ever experienced the complex emotions at the heart of the series.

The origin of this quote is from Morgan’s work on The Hour, a critically acclaimed British television series that explores the lives of journalists in the 1950s. As the writer and creator, Morgan sought to craft a story that was both grounded in its time period and infused with modern sensibilities. Her focus on emotional depth and universal themes was central to the success of the show, offering viewers a rich exploration of human nature set against the backdrop of mid-20th-century media and politics.