New story details for The Gilded Age season 3 set up a new era for the HBO show, along with some complicated relationships. Expected to premiere later in 2025, the period drama will pick up after the events of 2023’s season 2 finale, which heavily hinted Bertha Russell (Carrie Coon) had promised her daughter’s hand in marriage to the Duke of Buckingham (Ben Lamb) to secure his presence at her opera opening. With Bertha on top heading into The Gilded Age season 3, the series promises to explore New York City’s upended status quo.
In a new update from HBO exec Francesca Orsi, it sounds like New York’s social scene is going to get even more complicated. Orsi previewed the Gilded Age season 3 story in an interview with Deadline and revealed it will delve into “that era of how divorce came to the forefront.” She also referenced its connection to arranged marriage. Her full comments are below:
I think, broadly, it’s an interesting way in which we’ve explored that era of how divorce came to the forefront in United States relationships. I think that there’s a conversation to be had about arranged marriages, and if it doesn’t necessarily work, what divorce looks like in that time, and what that bodes for society. And then whether you’re accepted in society or not, based on a divorce.
What This Means For The Gilded Age Season 3
The Gilded Age season 2 took place in 1883, and while it isn’t clear if there will be a time jump before the start of season 3, it’s likely it won’t move too far into the future. Though society is rapidly changing, as seen through the rise of the Russells and others who come from “new” money, divorce was still a difficult subject. Through various romances, The Gilded Age has already demonstrated the importance of marriage during late 1800s in high society, and now it seems to be delving into what happens when one strays away from it.
Though Orsi doesn’t mention any characters by name, her reference to “arranged marriages” certainly calls Gladys Russell (Taissa Farmiga) to mind. It could be that The Gilded Age will jump ahead to when she and the Duke are married, allowing season 3 to explore her desire for a divorce. She wasn’t interested in him in season 2, and being forced to marry likely won’t change her feelings. Another option is that a different Gilded Age character could face divorce, perhaps among the many new cast members being introduced. Either way, the series will continue to depict the great evolution of American society.
Our Take On The Gilded Age Season 3’s Story
The struggle between new and old money has been one of The Gilded Age’s most fascinating aspects, and the idea that the series will continue to explore various societal divides is an intriguing prospect. With such a rich cast involved, it is guaranteed that any drama present within season 3’s story will resonate deeply. If Gladys is at the center of the divorce storyline, this could endanger Bertha’s new place at the top of the New York hierarchy and lead to tension within the Russell family. That alone sounds like a rich story, so hopefully season 3 will live up to this thrilling tease.
