The Gilded Age Season 3 Explodes with Shocking Battles and Heartbreaking Drama You Can’t Miss

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Warning: spoilers for The Gilded Age Season 3 premiere are in play.

In the singular debut on the 2025 TV lineup, the start of The Gilded Age’s third season delivered a powerful impact for HBO’s returning drama. With the initial surprise from the “This Season On…” trailer now subsided, let’s discuss the various issues that have arisen since then.

Before we delve into our discussion, it’s important to note that the events of Season 3, Episode 1 titled “Who Is in Charge Here?” may reveal key plot points, so here’s your heads-up. To set the context, let’s revisit a significant development from Season 2 that is already unfolding.

Ada Forte’s Newfound Position Is Going To Be A Crisis Point

Just as you might anticipate from series like Downton Abbey, it’s often found that a timely inheritance can solve most problems. In this case, if cousin Oscar (Blake Ritson) hadn’t been defrauded of a large amount, the Van Rhijn family finances wouldn’t have relied on the funds left by aunt Ada Forte’s (Cynthia Nixon) deceased husband.

In a surprising turn of events, she now holds the reins as the matriarch, a shift that even the servants during the Gilded Age recognized. For years, we’ve witnessed her sister Agnes (Christine Baranski) wielding power and essentially calling the shots. However, this is no longer the case, a change that will undoubtedly create tension within the household. Frankly, it’s rare to see someone defy Agnes Van Rhijn and not lose their composure.

John Trotter’s New Talents Open The Door For Huge Disappointments

During Season 2, the family footman John Trotter (Ben Ahlers), who played a growing interest in horology and clock repair, has teamed up with aspiring businessman Larry Russell (Harry Richardson) to establish a venture related to these areas. The series The Gilded Age didn’t waste time showcasing this progression.

Although Mr. Trotter isn’t part of the gatherings, it’s become apparent that he’s poised for a move into the limelight. However, it’s the meetings where John is absent, led by Larry, that are causing me concern.

As a movie critic, I find myself questioning Oscar’s intentions despite his well-meaning demeanor, given his past complications. The fact that his colleagues are growing weary of him, coupled with his newfound partner seemingly standing above him, paints a picture ripe for emotional turmoil and heartache.

I’m Worried The Russell Household Is Heading For Great Tragedy

It’s not just Larry who’s facing issues within the Russell family. While Bertha is experiencing an upward trajectory in her social status in New York, there seem to be some ominous developments taking place in her grand residence. George continues to grapple with difficult railroad negotiations that could potentially extend his influence across North America. However, the potential risks of these deals have been a source of concern for HBO Max subscribers since Season 2’s labor disputes.

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Upon coming back, it seems he’ll join the discussion on whether it’s indeed beneficial for the family according to his wife’s wishes that their daughter Gladys (Taissa Farmiga) marries the Duke of Buckingham (Ben Lamb). Previously, George and Bertha have had disagreements, but their contrasting views on prosperity through business versus societal norms could potentially lead to a rift. However, they might also risk losing their wealth due to the Transcontinental Railroad if things don’t go as planned.

Agnes Van Rhijn Just May Be A Social Crusader After All

In the latest trailer for Season 3 of “The Gilded Age”, it appears that Peggy Scott (Denée Benton) will recover, but Dr. Lewis’ (James Riordan) decision not to treat her condition won’t go unpunished. Agnes van Rhijn has vowed revenge, and history shows us that she is someone who should not be underestimated. Interestingly, this plot development seems to address a critique some viewers had about the show’s storyline.

In Season 2, Peggy embarked on a perilous journey to the South alongside her newspaper boss T. Thomas Fortune (played by Sullivan Jones). Some viewers felt that her storyline became somewhat isolated. However, with Agnes standing up against racism and advocating for Peggy’s cause, it appears as though the plots of the Van Rhijn-Brook and Scott families are coming back together.

If Ada’s involvement in the temperance and suffrage movements adds understanding or reconciliation to their strained relationship, this could be just what’s needed now, given the tumultuous state of dating in New York City among the children.

Marion And Peggy’s Romantic Obstacles Show Some Obheavals Are Ahead

It’s not just Gladys Russell who is dealing with the complications of romance in New York City; it seems like Peggy Scott might also face romantic turmoil. Her new relationship with Dr. William Kirkland (Jordan Donica) could potentially be affected by the scandalous kiss she shared with her former married boss, which may cause some trouble.

For William’s mother and Elizabeth, another potential issue may arise with her, which could add to her difficulties. To use a sports metaphor, Marion Brook (Louisa Jacobson) has already used up two out of three chances, much like a player in a baseball game.

In the wake of being left at the end of Season 1 and ending her engagement in Season 2, her current relationship with Larry Russell is crucial. This added significance only intensifies the strain on Larry’s business transactions with footman Jack Trotter, as any potential collapse of these deals could reflect negatively on their family name.

In essence, the overarching idea in Season 3 of “The Gilded Age” appears to revolve around the notion that change doesn’t come without its risks, and acquiring our desires might not be as effortless or gratifying as initially imagined. Although history can provide some guidance up to a certain extent, Julian Fellowes’ historical dramas often introduce unexpected twists and turns. This unpredictability is one reason I remain optimistic about the possibility of a Downton Abbey crossover.

Looking ahead, the remaining episodes of The Gilded Age Season 3 are certain to captivate and charm us in equal measure. Expect hearts to shatter and fortunes to rise or fall, every Sunday night at 9 PM ET on HBO. Don’t miss out – you can catch up on earlier seasons, plus fresh episodes that drop as they air, all on HBO Max!

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2025-06-30 00:08