Who plays the character of Ken Cosgrove on Mad Men?

Aaron Staton plays Ken Cosgrove on Mad Men. Ken is introduced as a junior account man at Sterling Cooper and becomes one of the agency’s most capable account executives as the series develops.

Unlike the more openly competitive Pete Campbell, Ken often appears relaxed and self-assured. He has literary ambitions, writes fiction under a pseudonym, and succeeds in advertising while maintaining interests outside the office. His creative ability and calm temperament eventually help him rise professionally, even when colleagues underestimate him.

Ken is also notable because his career storyline connects the business and cultural worlds of the show. He works with major clients, navigates office rivalries, and later becomes increasingly frustrated by the demands of corporate advertising. His character offers a contrast to characters whose identities are almost entirely tied to ambition, status, or deception.

Viewers sometimes confuse Staton with Rich Sommer, who plays Harry Crane, another member of the younger office group. Jay R. Ferguson appears later as Stan Rizzo, while Bryan Batt portrays Salvatore Romano. None of those actors plays Ken Cosgrove.