• by David Goetzl  @dgoetzl, July 24, 2007

AMC, which has made increasing efforts to link with advertisers on campaigns that extend beyond linear broadcasts, has a deal with Cross pens for its fledgling "Mad Men" series.

AMC's first original drama series will be connected with Cross on the network--which is branching out from its movie focus--as well as the Web and at more than 200 retail outlets.

The on-air aspect includes product placement in the 13-episode series and special vignettes.

Separately, AMC has a deal with Jack Daniels to integrate its whiskey into the series about ad executives in 1960. The series focuses on Madison Avenue at the dawn of the new decade, which AMC says offered an "innovative yet ruthless profession" that looked to influence "the hopes and dreams of Americans on a daily basis."

"This series offers a unique opportunity to showcase iconic brands like Cross in a compelling, entertainment environment," said Linda Schupack, AMC's senior vice president of marketing. "The partnership with Cross provides AMC with the opportunity to build awareness for "Mad Men" throughout their extensive network of stores."