Mad Men: Why was Lane Pryce killed off?

One possible reason for Lane's exit from the show is the desire to shake things up and introduce a significant plot twist. Similar to Don Draper's constant search for change and new beginnings, Lane's death serves as a dramatic event that disrupts the stability of Sterling Cooper Draper Pryce. It adds tension and adds depth to the storyline, as the characters, particularly Don, react and grapple with the consequences of Lane's actions.Another theory is that Lane's suicide reflects a theme of ambition and the pursuit of success at any cost. Throughout his journey on the show, Lane faces numerous challenges and financial difficulties. He invests a significant amount of money in the agency but is not properly compensated for it. This, combined with the pressure of UK taxes and feeling undervalued, pushes Lane to make a desperate attempt to cover his obligations. When his forgery is discovered by Don, Lane's façade crumbles, and he sees no way out but to end his own life.Jared Harris, the actor who portrayed Lane Pryce, was unaware of his character's fate until the table read for episode 10. Harris found Lane's failed suicide attempt both hilarious and tragic, and he believed that leaving the show with a bang rather than a whimper was a better choice for the character's exit. This perspective adds an interesting dimension to understanding why Lane was killed off, as it highlights the impact of storytelling and the desire to create a memorable and impactful conclusion for a character.Ultimately, the decision to kill off Lane Pryce in "Mad Men" was a creative one made by the show's creator, Matthew Weiner. It served to propel the storyline forward, challenge the remaining characters, and emphasize the theme of ambition and the pursuit of success. Lane's death was a powerful and emotional moment in the series, leaving a lasting impact on both the characters and the viewers.