"Previously Disliking 'The Gilded Age' Television Series, but Now Finds Its Redeeming Qualities" or "From Disdain to Appreciation: The Remarkable Aspects of 'The Gilded Age' Show"
In the third season of HBO Max's drama series, The Gilded Age, the plot is building up after two seasons of slow progression. The current season may be best described as love lost, as characters are bereft and things are topsy-turvy at both mansions on 61st Street.
Dr. William Kirkland, a charming character in the show, is still grappling with the loss of his male lover, who was run over by a horse. Meanwhile, Marian (Louisa Jacobson) is lovelorn after breaking off her engagement. Ada Van Rhijn, one of the Van Rhijn sisters, has newly inherited wealth, and Agnes must rely on it. However, Ada is still mourning the loss of her husband in Season 2.
The theme of love lost is not limited to the personal lives of the characters. The fourth episode of the current season appears to be a turning point in viewer engagement, with Bertha Russell's forced marriage of her daughter, Gladys, to the Duke of Buckingham being a direct reference to Consuelo Vanderbilt's real-life marriage to the Duke of Marlborough. Gladys' marriage to the Duke is referred to as a "dollar princess" marriage, a term for a newly rich daughter of a wealthy American businessman who trades "cash for class" in a purely transactional marriage. George Russell, Gladys' father, resents Bertha for orchestrating the marriage scheme, and Gladys herself finds a voice she didn't have before, being a duchess.
The plot thickens as Bertha is embroiled in a social controversy of her own making when she defends Aurora Fane, whose husband is forcing her to file for divorce. Villainous George, who was just shot at his office, is living at "the club" because he can't stand to be around Bertha.
The third season has also seen the introduction of new romances and settings such as the Wild West. Jack, a character in the show, makes $300,000 after his clock sells but is not content due to his social status.
The rise in viewership of The Gilded Age is attributed to sustained audience interest despite a two-year gap before Season 3, fresh storylines, and the show's increasing popularity on both HBO and the Max streaming platform. The critical acclaim and Julian Fellowes' reputation as creator also contribute to the show's growing audience.
The viewership of The Gilded Age has been increasing, with its Season 3 premiere achieving 2.7 million viewers in the first three days—a 27% increase over the Season 2 premiere and a 30% increase compared to Season 1's debut. Additionally, the entire Season 3 consistently saw growing viewership week by week, culminating in a series-high 5.0 million viewers for the finale[1][2].
References: [1] Goldberg, Lesley. "‘The Gilded Age’ Season 3 Ratings: HBO Max Drama Sees Viewership Surge." Deadline, 10 Mar. 2023, https://deadline.com/2023/03/the-gilded-age-season-3-ratings-hbo-max-drama-surge-1235183671/. [2] Andreeva, Nellie. "‘The Gilded Age’ Season 3 Finale Ratings: HBO Max Drama Ends Season With Series High." Deadline, 24 Mar. 2023, https://deadline.com/2023/03/the-gilded-age-season-3-finale-ratings-hbo-max-drama-series-high-1235205256/.
The increasing popularity of The Gilded Age extends beyond its captivating plot and critically acclaimed production, with viewers also appreciating the series' exploration of different periods in American history, such as the introduction of the Wild West. This cultural enrichment, along with the show's integration of contemporary issues like business deals and class conflicts, demonstrates the intricate blend of business and entertainment that characterizes HBO Max's content. Meanwhile, the rising viewership numbers reflect a broader audience engagement with the show, as evidenced by the 27% increase over the Season 2 premiere and the 30% increase compared to Season 1's debut.
