Since its HBO debut, The Gilded Age has captivated audiences with its opulent visuals, historical intrigue, and jaw-dropping drama. Created by Julian Fellowes, the mastermind behind Downton Abbey, the show delves into the societal clashes of 1880s New York, where old money reluctantly met new ambition amidst a city brimming with change. The series features a stellar cast including Carrie Coon, Morgan Spector, Christine Baranski, Cynthia Nixon, and Denée Benton.
The Gilded Age has become a lush period piece cherished by both history enthusiasts and drama aficionados. With numerous award nominations and a dedicated fan base, the show’s fusion of high society scandals and authentic historical events has sparked a significant question: Will there be a season 4 of The Gilded Age? Join us as we explore the details of this increasingly popular series, which has fans unknowingly brushing up on American history.
In this article, we’ll cover the renewal status of ‘The Gilded Age,’ explore its historical accuracy, differentiate it from the ‘New Gilded Age,’ and suggest similar shows for your viewing pleasure.
Is ‘The Gilded Age’ Renewed for Season Four?
As of July 2025, HBO officially announced a renewal for season four of The Gilded Age, according to Forbes. Much to the delight of the series’ devoted fanbase, this renewal came a few episodes before the season three finale. This renewal isn’t surprising, given the show’s consistently strong performance on HBO and Max.
According to Forbes, “The renewal comes as HBO reports that total premiere-night viewing for season three has increased for five consecutive weeks, resulting in a 20 percent growth over last season. Fan engagement has also risen, with social chatter jumping nearly 60 percent week over week.” Although details on the premiere date and plot remain under wraps, fans can anticipate the return of key cast members and further development of major storylines.
The upcoming season will amplify its growing cultural impact by continuing the stories of major characters. Bertha and George’s relationship (Carrie Coon and Morgan Spector, respectively) and the aftermath of John Adams’ (Claybourne Elder) tragic death were significant plot points for season three. Also, Marian and Larry’s (Louisa Jacobson and Harry Richardson) reconciled engagement may be elaborated on.
How Historically Accurate is ‘The Gilded Age’?
Julien Fellowes has grounded The Gilded Age in a real historical context. Many events, institutions, and figures featured in the show are based on actual people and developments of the time. Additionally, characters like Peggy Scott (Denée Benton) help depict diverse Black experiences. Some characters are even inspired by historical figures, like that of pioneering African American journalist T. Thomas Fortune (Sullivan Jones).
Furthermore, the show’s central themes of social climbing, railroad expansion, and the rise of the press are taken from history. These elements reflect real aspects of the Gilded Age, marked by dramatic economic growth and severe inequality. The Gilded Age does not shy away from the harder-to-digest parts of the country’s troubled past. However, as with many historical dramas, the show does take creative liberties. Characters are often more like composites of the real people they may be based on, and timelines are occasionally compressed for narrative clarity. Still, this show is a strong introduction to one of America’s most transformative and turbulent eras.
What is the New Gilded Age, and How is it Similar and Different from the Gilded Age?
It is essential to differentiate between the Gilded Age and the New Gilded Age for viewers unfamiliar with American historical periods. The former traditionally refers to a period in American history spanning from the 1870s to about 1900. This era was marked by rapid industrialization, vast wealth accumulation, and stark income inequality. This title, coined by Mark Twain (and Charles Dudley Warner) in the 1873 novel of the same name, reflects a superficial surface of gold hiding deeper social problems like poverty, corruption, and labor exploitation.
According to Politico, this era was when “Titans of industry enjoyed enormous control over political institutions, while everyday Americans buckled under the strain of change. As the gap between the haves and the have-nots widened, political culture ultimately grew coarse – and violent.”
In contrast, the New Gilded Age is a modern term describing current socioeconomic trends mirroring the original era. The rise of billionaires, corporate monopolies, and increasing wealth disparities are hallmarks of this era. And as Politico describes, this is becoming a new norm even though, “When they wrote their satirical novel, The Gilded Age: A Tale of Today, in 1873, Mark Twain and Charles Dudley Warner meant to parody the corruption, greed, and social inequality of post-Civil War America. It wasn’t meant as a compliment.”
Both periods share tension between the luxury of the elite and the squalor of those less fortunate. Yet, America has steadily gravitated to this state of being. This reality may make The Gilded Age a thinly veiled (and intricately timed) social commentary. As a result, shows like this offer not just entertainment but a lens into the cyclical nature of power and privilege.
What to Watch If You Like ‘The Gilded Age’
If The Gilded Age sounds interesting, or if you’ve already binged the show, there’s plenty more to keep period drama lovers entertained. Here are five different shows that blend historical detail, social intrigue, and strong character-driven storytelling. These shows can satisfy your historical cravings with their aristocratic estates, royal palaces, and gilded drawing rooms.
‘Downton Abbey’ (2010-2015)
Where to watch: Netflix, ITV, Amazon Prime Video
The first recommendation is The Gilded Age’s predecessor, Downton Abbey, which paved the way for its success. It is nearly impossible to discuss the popularity of The Gilded Age without mentioning Julian Fellowes’ original hit series. Downton Abbey is set in early 20th century England and follows the aristocratic Crawley family and their domestic staff through seismic societal shifts. It shares the same creator, dramatic flair, and class-conscious storytelling.
‘Bridgerton’ (2020-present)
Where to watch: Netflix
If you’re drawn to romance, scandal, and eye-popping costumes, Bridgerton might just be your next favorite. The show’s musical score features classical renditions of modern hits and plenty of heated courtships, alongside an exciting central mystery about the anonymous gossip Lady Whistledown. Set in Regency-era London, it reimagines high society through a more modern, inclusive lens. This Netflix original series, which already has a spin-off show, isn’t completely historically grounded but excels at similar themes like social status and gender politics.
‘Belgravia’ (2020)
Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video, MGM+
Another Julian Fellowes creation is the Belgravia miniseries, set in 19th-century London. It centers on secrets buried for decades and the clash between social mobility and aristocratic values. With only six episodes, this show may be the perfect bite-sized treat for people just getting into period pieces (or with short attention spans). It is a quick but satisfying dive into the world of Victorian-era society.
‘The Crown’ (2016-2023)
Where to watch: Netflix
Spanning the 20th century, this series masterfully portrays the intersection of public duty and private lives within the British royal family. It is an excellent follow-up for fans of historical prestige dramas. This six-season series has impeccable production design and complex female leads. It rose in popularity due to its intriguing focus but refrains from jumping too far into the future, instead focusing around a 60-year narrative period.
‘Victoria’ (2016-2019)
Where to watch: PBS, Amazon Prime Video
Focusing on the early reign of Queen Victoria, this British drama offers a detailed look at politics, royal duty, and societal change in the 19th century. Jenna Coleman shines in the leading role, and the series presents a compelling portrait of a young woman navigating power in a male-dominated world. In a relatively short span of time, Victoria does a great job of depicting the transformation of a teenage queen who grows into the demands of her role.
In conclusion, The Gilded Age has secured its place as a captivating and insightful historical drama. With the renewal for season four, fans can eagerly anticipate more of the opulent world and intricate storylines that have made the show a hit. Whether you’re drawn to the historical accuracy, the exploration of societal themes, or the sheer entertainment value, The Gilded Age offers something for everyone.
As we await the next season, explore other period dramas like Downton Abbey, Bridgerton, Belgravia, The Crown, and Victoria to further indulge your historical cravings. These shows, much like The Gilded Age, provide a window into different eras, showcasing the complexities of power, privilege, and human relationships. Happy watching!
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