Awaiting Certainty for Season 4 of 'The Gilded Age' – Insights Following That Shocking Cliffhanger
The fourth season of the critically acclaimed period drama, The Gilded Age, is set to return to HBO Max, with speculation pointing towards a premiere in late 2026 or early 2027 [1][2][3]. The series, created by Julian Fellowes, has been renewed for another instalment, following the success of its third season which received the most critical acclaim than the previous two seasons [3].
The main cast, including Bertha Russell (Coon), George Russell (Spector), Ada Brook (Cynthia Nixon), Agnes van Rhijn (Christine Baranski), Marian Brook (Louisa Jacobson), Gladys Russell (Taissa Farmiga), Peggy Scott (Deneé Benton), and more, are expected to return for Season 4 [1]. However, Claybourne Elder, who portrayed John Adams, is unlikely to return due to his character's death in Season 3 [1].
The plot details for Season 4 are currently under wraps, but the story timeline suggests it will be set in the mid-1880s, continuing the consecutive yearly progression of the narrative from the first three seasons starting in 1882 [1]. Morgan Spector, who plays George Russell, has hinted that the couple may spend time apart in Season 4, with George expressing uncertainty about their future [1]. Carrie Coon, who plays Bertha, is unsure if George and Bertha will reconcile in Season 4 [1].
Meanwhile, other storylines are expected to unfold. Gladys Russell and the Duke are happy together and expecting a child in Season 3 [1]. Oscar, a character in The Gilded Age, is considering a mutually beneficial marriage to Enid [1]. The season finale saw George Russell being shot in his office in the penultimate episode, and William proposing to Peggy at the Black Ball [1].
The third season of The Gilded Age has been well-received, with Variety's TV critic Alison Herman calling it "the best season yet." HBO reported a 20% growth in total premiere-night viewing for Season 3 compared to the previous season [2]. Social chatter for The Gilded Age increased nearly 60% week over week [2].
As we await the official announcement of the release date for Season 4, fans can catch up on the third season, which is currently airing on HBO Max [3]. With the cliffhanger ending of Season 3 and the promise of more from the fourth season, viewers are eagerly waiting to see where the story will lead next.
[1] Collider. (2025). The Gilded Age Season 4: What We Know So Far. [online] Available at: https://collider.com/the-gilded-age-season-4-release-date-cast-plot/
[2] TVLine. (2025). The Gilded Age Season 3 Ratings: HBO Max Drama Hits a Series High. [online] Available at: https://tvline.com/2025/08/17/the-gilded-age-season-3-ratings-hbo-max-drama-hits-series-high/
[3] Deadline. (2025). 'The Gilded Age' Renewed For Season 4 By HBO. [online] Available at: https://deadline.com/2025/07/the-gilded-age-season-4-renewed-by-hbo-1235062744/
Entertainment enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the return of the critically acclaimed series, The Gilded Age, in late 2026 or early 2027 on HBO Max. While fans wait for the official release date announcement, they can catch up on season 3 and speculate about the possibility of a "Gilded Age" season 4, as the compelling storyline of the third season (set in the mid-1880s) has left viewers eager to discover what happens next.
