"The Doorway" isn't just a season premiere; it’s a haunting, two-part deep dive into Don Draper’s psyche as the 1960s begin to sour. Set against the lush backdrop of and the grit of New York City in late 1967, this episode sets the stage for a season defined by death, identity, and the "sliding door" moments of life.
This episode features the "New Betty," who has dyed her hair dark and is attempting to find herself through social work and empathy, a sharp turn from her previous seasons.
We see Peggy fully settled into her role at Cutler, Gleason & Chaough. She is now the one dealing with "the kids" and late-night crises, proving she has become the very person Don used to be.
The episode is bookended by the concept of passing through to "the other side," specifically through the story of the veteran Don meets at the bar.
