As The Gilded Age gears up for its fourth season, fans are buzzing about what's next for the elite of 1890s New York. The show, created by Downton Abbey's Julian Fellowes, has become a staple for period drama lovers, and Season 3 delivered plenty of twists and turns. From financial ruin to unexpected romances, here's everything you need to remember before the HBO series returns.
The Van Rhijn Household Turns Upside Down
Season 3 saw the Van Rhijn family in turmoil. After Oscar (Blake Ritson) loses his fortune, he's forced to move back in with his mother, Agnes (Christine Baranski). But the household dynamic has shifted dramatically—Ada (Cynthia Nixon), now wealthy from an unexpected inheritance, has taken charge. She's hosting Temperance meetings and controlling the purse strings, much to Agnes's dismay. Agnes, once the dominant force, must grapple with her fading influence, though she finds a new purpose when she's offered the vice presidency of the Heritage Society.
Oscar, meanwhile, struggles to rebuild his reputation after his financial downfall. His lover, John Adams (Claybourne Elder), helps him navigate the social fallout, but tragedy strikes when John is suddenly killed. Oscar, unable to publicly mourn, confides only in Marian (Louisa Jacobson). By season's end, Oscar reconnects with Mrs. Enid Winterton (Kelley Curran), the former Russell maid who's now a wealthy widow. Their mutual benefits—her money, his social standing—make for a pragmatic match that could redefine Oscar's future.
Jack's Rise and Peggy's New Love
While the Van Rhijns deal with their drama, the show also explores the lives of those outside the upper crust. Jack (Ben Ahlers), the former footman, strikes gold with his clock invention, selling the patent with Larry Russell's help. He's now a man of means, and a visit from Bridget (Taylor Richardson) hints at a possible romance.
Peggy Scott (Denée Benton) is also on a new path, leaving her newspaper job to write a novel. But her plans are derailed by illness, leading to a meeting with Dr. William Kirkland (Jordan Donica). Their romance blossoms despite opposition from William's mother (Phylicia Rashad), who disapproves of Peggy's past. When Peggy reveals the truth about her lost son, William initially hesitates but ultimately accepts her. The season ends with a proposal, setting the stage for a potential wedding in Season 4.
The Russell Siblings Face Love and Loss
The Russell family remains at the heart of the drama. Gladys (Taissa Farmiga) falls for Billy Carlton, but Bertha (Carrie Coon) has other plans, manipulating her into marrying the Duke of Buckingham (Ben Lamb). Though the marriage starts cold, Gladys finds a measure of happiness after taking control from her sister-in-law, and the season ends with her expecting a child.
Larry (Harry Richardson) and Marian's romance takes a rocky turn. After getting engaged, Larry lies about a night out, and Marian, hurt by past betrayals, calls it off. Jack's testimony clears Larry's name, but the couple is left on uncertain ground, leaving fans wondering if they'll reunite.
Bertha and George's Marriage Under Strain
The Russell marriage also faces challenges. Gossip leaks to the press, and the culprit is Bertha's maid, Miss André (Rachel Pickup), who's promptly dismissed. Ward McAllister (Nathan Lane) publishes a tell-all book, earning him exile from society. Meanwhile, the show tackles the stigma of divorce through Mrs. Fane (Kelli O'Hara), whose husband leaves her after an affair. Bertha, surprisingly, advocates against ostracizing her, showing a more compassionate side.
As The Gilded Age prepares for its return, these storylines are sure to evolve. For more on the show's future, check out who's leaving before Season 4. And if you're in the mood for more period drama, you might enjoy a Gatsby reboot with a twist.
