“The Gilded Age,” which premiered on NBC in 2022, was created by Julian Fellowes, renowned for “Downton Abbey.”
Across its first two seasons, the series has received critical acclaim, with season 2 achieving an impressive Rotten Tomatoes score exceeding 90%.
In the era of rising popularity for historical dramas, “The Gilded Age” could emerge as the next compelling must-watch drama.
But will it be rewarded with a season 3?
The Gilded Age hasn’t been renewed by HBO for season 3. Francesca Orsi, HBO’s head of drama, revealed in May 2023 that factors like viewership, critical response, online buzz, etc., in proportion to the cost of production will be noted before a renewal decision is made.
What Is The Gilded Age About?
“The Gilded Age” is an American historical drama series created and written by Julian Fellowes for HBO, immersing viewers in the vibrant world of 1880s New York City during the Gilded Age.
Set against the backdrop of the Upper East Side of Manhattan, “The Gilded Age” delves into the intricacies of 1882 New York’s social hierarchy.
It revolves around a young woman navigating the rigid social scene, caught between the new-money Russell family and the old-money van Rhijn-Brook family, who are neighbors along 61st Street near Fifth Avenue.
The series also explores the challenges faced by the upper and upper-middle classes, the African-American upper class, and the domestic workers who cater to their diverse needs, offering a comprehensive portrayal of society during this transformative period.
Initially slated for NBC in 2018, the show transitioned to HBO in May 2019, finally making its debut on January 24, 2022.
Its success was evident when a second season was swiftly renewed in February 2022, which premiered on October 29, 2023.
The series has garnered widespread acclaim, particularly for its exquisite costumes and the stellar performances of its leading cast members.
Has The Gilded Age Been Renewed For Season 3?
HBO’s critically acclaimed series, “The Gilded Age,” has left viewers eagerly anticipating its third season.
Francesca Orsi, HBO’s head of drama, offered insights into the network’s plans for scripted dramas in May 2023, shedding light on the show’s future.
Orsi emphasized the network’s meticulous assessment of its shows, taking into account a multitude of factors. She said (as per Deadline):
“Each show has a job to do, given the price tag that we give to it, and there’s a viewership component, and there’s a critical response element to it and, of course, the buzz nature of a show.”
So if The Gilded Age performs well in these parameters, a renewal is possible. But the truth is that, at the time of writing, an official announcement regarding the show’s third season hasn’t been made.
However, the creative team is already envisioning the next chapter.
Writer Sonja Warfield expressed enthusiasm for the vast historical landscape yet to be explored, hinting at exciting storylines. She told Town & Country magazine:
“In season one, we had Thomas Edison’s lights, in season two, we have the Tuskegee Institute, and we’ll discover what that is in season three.”
The show’s production schedule has been somewhat irregular, with season one airing in late January 2022 and season two premiering over a year later in October 2023.
If “The Gilded Age” maintains a similar trajectory, viewers might have to wait until summer 2025 for the next installment.
However, the creative team may opt for a more consistent autumn/winter launch, possibly bringing season three to screens in late 2024.
A crucial element of the show’s appeal is its ensemble cast, including the talented Carrie Coon as Bertha Russell.
The Russells, as central characters, are expected to make a return, with Harry Richardson as Larry Russell, Morgan Spector as George Russell, and Taissa Farmiga as Miss Gladys Russell.
Additionally, Bertha’s Duke of Buckingham, portrayed by Ben Lamb, is predicted to reprise his role.
What Will Happen in The Gilded Age Season 3?
Season two left viewers with several intriguing plotlines, and it’s safe to say that season three could deliver even more riveting developments.
One of the central conflicts in the upcoming season is expected to revolve around Gladys Russell’s discovery of her mother’s alleged marriage arrangement with the Duke.
While Bertha, Gladys’s mother, has yet to confirm this development officially, all signs seem to be pointing in that direction.
The brewing tension between mother and daughter could become a pivotal element of the Russells’ season-three arc, potentially extending its influence to Bertha’s control over her son Larry’s life.
Bertha’s formidable influence over her family is no secret, dictating their lifestyles, relationships, and career choices.
However, the Duke’s impending presence in their lives might push Gladys and Larry to their limits. The dynamics within the Russell family promise to be a critical focal point in the upcoming season.
Across the social divide, the Van Rhijns are poised for a shake-up of their own.
With Ada now in control of the family’s finances, a shift in power dynamics is inevitable. Agnes, a character known for her pride and independence, will likely struggle in her submissive role, particularly when having to answer to Ada.
This shift could intensify her resentment towards her son, Oscar, who squandered their family fortune.
The narrative concerning Peggy has been a source of frustration for many viewers.
Her emotional rollercoaster, from believing her son was dead to discovering he was alive only to lose him again, left audiences exasperated.
Moreover, her near-romance with a married man and subsequent job resignation felt needless. Fans are hoping for a more satisfying and just storyline for Peggy in season three.
The budding romance between Marian and Larry Russell is expected to be explored further in the upcoming season.
Their respective families have been at odds since the series’ inception, adding complexity to their relationship. How this romance unfolds amidst familial tensions will undoubtedly be a point of interest.
As “The Gilded Age” show continues to captivate viewers with its intricate character dynamics and period drama, season three promises to intensify conflicts, develop relationships, and deliver long-awaited character arcs.
What are you most eager to see explored in season 3? Is a renewal possible?
Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
Source: Town & Country and Deadline
