HBO's The Gilded Age: Season Analysis, Key Performances, and Anticipated Developments in Season 4
The much-anticipated Season 4 of HBO's The Gilded Age is set to grace our screens in 2026, promising to delve deeper into the intense social dynamics of 1880s New York City.
This period drama, created by Julian Fellowes, is renowned for its stunning production design, powerful female leads, modern themes in a historical setting, top-tier ensemble cast, and real historical ties. The series, which premiered in January 2022, explores the clash between old money and new, tradition and progress, and has been praised for its insightful social commentary.
Season 4 will continue to follow characters like Marian Brook as she navigates tensions between established “old money” families and the ambitious “new money” Russells. The previous season saw significant events such as tragedy, divorce, violence, and cracks in prominent households, setting a complex stage for further development in Season 4.
One of the key characters, Bertha Russell, played by Carrie Coon, may pursue political influence or philanthropy as her next endeavor. Meanwhile, Marian Brook may find herself at a crossroads between independence and love.
Notable characters returning for Season 4 include Merritt Wever, Andrea Martin, and Taissa Farmiga. The main characters include Marian Brook, Agnes van Rhijn, Ada Brook, Bertha Russell, George Russell, Peggy Scott, and Oscar van Rhijn.
As for Peggy Scott, her role as a journalist and activist will likely grow, with civil rights and education reform playing a larger role. The show may also introduce historical figures such as Teddy Roosevelt, Andrew Carnegie, or J.P. Morgan, adding another layer of authenticity to the series.
While official confirmation of Season 4 is yet to be made as of July 2025, signs point towards renewal due to high viewership numbers, a growing fanbase, and hints from cast and crew interviews.
Fans of Downton Abbey, Bridgerton, and Victoria may find a new obsession in The Gilded Age, as it reflects America’s growing pains during a transformative era, with themes of ambition, inequality, and social change.
Stay tuned for more updates on Season 4 of The Gilded Age!
References: [1] The Hollywood Reporter. (2022). 'The Gilded Age' Renewed for Season 2 at HBO. [online] Available at: https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/gilded-age-season-2-hbo-renewal-1235117757/
[2] Deadline. (2022). 'The Gilded Age' Renewed For Season 2 By HBO. [online] Available at: https://deadline.com/2022/03/the-gilded-age-renewed-for-season-2-by-hbo-1234937186/
[3] Variety. (2022). 'The Gilded Age' Renewed for Season 2 at HBO. [online] Available at: https://variety.com/2022/tv/news/the-gilded-age-renewed-for-season-2-at-hbo-1235061410/
[4] TVLine. (2022). 'The Gilded Age' Renewed for Season 2 at HBO. [online] Available at: https://tvline.com/2022/03/10/the-gilded-age-season-2-renewed-hbo/
In the world of entertainment, awaiting the reviews for Season 4 of HBO's The Gilded Age will undoubtedly provide insight on its continuation of exploring social dynamics through music, interviews, and television, among other aspects. As fans eagerly anticipate the depiction of Peggy Scott's emerging journalism career and potential encounters with historical figures, they can also look forward to delving deeper into the storylines of returning characters like Marian Brook and Bertha Russell.