John Slattery, best known for his role as Roger Sterling in Mad Men, is now the first actor to join Ocean Conservancy’s "Protect Where We Play" campaign. The announcement came on September 24, 2025, at a New York City Climate Week event, where Slattery was named a Team Ocean Captain.
The initiative, which has previously featured athletes and performers from various sports, aims to use the reach of these figures to encourage fans to support ocean conservation. Slattery’s addition is intended to bring a new voice to the campaign and connect with entertainment audiences. He joins a roster that includes WNBA player Napheesa Collier, NFL player Kelvin Beachum, and world champion surfer John John Florence.
Slattery described his personal connection to the ocean, saying, "The ocean has been a source of great joy and peace for me when I’m not behind or in front of the camera, and I’m delighted to be part of Protect Where We Play." He added, "My favorite thing about surfing may be the knowledge that the wave I’m riding has traveled a great distance to reach me. The ocean connects us all."
The announcement also included an exclusive preview of Kuleana, a documentary narrated by Woody Harrelson. Produced by Georgia Scott and GroundTruth Productions in partnership with Ocean Conservancy, the film examines the ocean plastics crisis in Hawaii through the experiences of elite athletes. Ocean Conservancy’s vice president of ocean plastics, Nicholas Mallos, described plastic pollution as one of the most visible threats facing the ocean.
The organization will work with filmmakers and audiences to encourage action for the ocean, leveraging the combined cultural influence of its Team Ocean Captains and partners to drive conservation efforts.