Darlings, pour yourself something strong – you’ll need it after that jaw-dropping season finale of “The Gilded Age.” HBO’s lavish period drama just served up enough scandal to make a Vanderbilt blush, and honestly? We’re still catching our breath.
The third season wrapped with the kind of dramatic flourish that would make even the most jaded Manhattan socialite sit up straight. At its heart stands Bertha Russell – played with magnificent steel by Carrie Coon – watching her carefully constructed world crumble faster than last season’s bustles.
Let’s dish about that ending, shall we? Picture this: Bertha Russell, standing in her obscenely expensive Newport mansion (new money, darling, but who’s counting?), watching her husband’s carriage disappear into the distance. George’s parting shot about possibly not loving her anymore? Ouch. Heaven forbid a woman play the social climbing game as ruthlessly as the men – though in 1880s New York, what else was a girl to do?
The season’s high point arrived with all the subtlety of a Gilded Age ball gown when George Russell found himself on the business end of an assassin’s bullet. Suddenly, that meticulously appointed dining room became an impromptu operating theater. Thank heavens for Dr. William Kirkland (Jordan Donica) swooping in like a medical knight in shining armor – proving that sometimes the best drama happens when class lines blur.
Speaking of Dr. Kirkland… Well, well, well. Our favorite physician finally got over his maternal attachment issues (and not a moment too soon) to propose to Peggy (Denée Benton). About time our brilliant journalist/suffragette got her moment in the sun, even if it meant facing down the formidable Mrs. Kirkland. Phylicia Rashad continues to serve looks that could freeze the Hudson River solid.
Meanwhile, in a twist that probably has Agnes van Rhijn’s eyebrows reaching for the heavens, Oscar van Rhijn proposed a marriage of convenience to Mrs. Winterton. Christine Baranski’s inevitable reaction to this development might just be worth the wait until 2026’s season premiere.
Speaking of what’s ahead – Morgan Spector dropped a bombshell that’s got fans clutching their streaming devices. His ominous hint about George Russell’s fate (“be very worried”) coupled with that casual “no contract yet” comment? Faster than you can say “Newport summer season,” the fandom went into collective cardiac arrest.
HBO’s Francesca Orsi confirmed what we already knew – “The Gilded Age” is coming back for a fourth round of social warfare. With viewership numbers that would make even Mrs. Astor take notice, the show’s proven that 19th-century drama hits different when served with a side of historical grandeur.
As we wait for 2026 (honestly, these production schedules are getting longer than a Newport receiving line), one thing’s crystal clear: “The Gilded Age” continues serving up delicious proof that the machinations of old New York society were just as cutthroat as any modern power play. Though perhaps with better wardrobes.
After all, as Bertha so memorably declared at her ball, “The future belongs to America.” Just maybe not to those who dare to challenge the established order while wearing last season’s Worth gown. But then again, when has fashion ever stopped a true social climber?
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