Next Gen 2012: Hollywood's Fastest-Rising Stars

From her political-activist lesbian on Mad Men to a sex-obsessed teen in The Kids Are All Right, the offspring of David Mamet has never played it safe. Mamet, 24 (originally from Randolph, Vt.) surprised again as virginal goofball Shoshanna on HBO's Emmy-nominated comedy.

CAREER INSPIRATION: I grew up in an industry family, but if I grew up on a farm in Iowa, I'd like to think that I would still want to do this. My mom was onstage when she was pregnant with me. I think it's just in my blood.

10 YEARS FROM NOW: Still working on projects I love -- TV, film, stage -- as long as it's a challenge. Give me an 18-hour day on set or in the theater, and I will be the happiest person alive.

WORST DAY: When we were shooting the crack episode for Girls. I had walking pneumonia and was half-naked running through the streets of Brooklyn and had to be energized enough to be on crack. It was fun but such a challenge.

WHEN I'M NOT WORKING I'M: Sitting in a corner reading a book, or riding my horse.