Christina Hendricks has come a long way since her difficult high school days in Fairfax, Virginia.

Now one of the most recognizable, acclaimed, and desired women globally, her portrayal of Joan Harris in the hit series “Mad Men” earned her praise, Emmy nominations, and a dedicated fan base.

Her striking appearance and timeless quality have captivated both men and women alike, even being named “the sexiest woman in the world” in a 2010 Esquire magazine poll.

However, her journey to stardom was not always an easy one.

As a teenager, Hendricks found refuge in the drama department of her high school, where acting provided an outlet for her feelings of rage and frustration.

She adopted a goth style as a form of armor against the bullying she experienced.

Despite her struggles, she continued to pursue her passion for acting, with her onscreen charisma becoming a driving force in her success.

After getting various roles in television series like “ER” and “Without a Trace,” Hendricks’s big break came when the script for “Mad Men” landed on her proverbial desk.

Although her agency didn’t believe the show would be successful and eventually dropped her, she took a chance on the role of Joan.

This gamble would pay off tremendously when the first season aired in 2007 to instant success.

In recent years, Hendricks has taken on roles in films like “God’s Pocket” and has expressed interest in doing theater work.

With the conclusion of “Mad Men,” she and her husband, actor Geoffrey Arend, have relocated to New York.

Despite the challenges and changes she has faced, Hendricks remains an iconic figure in the entertainment industry.

As Hendricks’s star continues to rise, she remains grounded and appreciative of her journey thus far.

The challenges she faced in her youth have shaped her into a resilient and confident woman, both onscreen and off.

With her striking presence and undeniable talent, it is clear that Christina Hendricks will continue to captivate audiences and leave her mark on the world of entertainment.