HBO has officially confirmed the renewal of its acclaimed series, The Gilded Age, for a fourth season. The announcement, made on July 28, 2025, comes as the show continues to attract a growing audience, with viewership for the third season reportedly increasing by nearly 50% compared to previous seasons.
Francesca Orsi, HBO’s head of drama series and films, expressed pride in the show’s success, stating, “We couldn’t be prouder of the undeniable viewership heights The Gilded Age has achieved this season.” She noted the series transports viewers to 1880s New York City, highlighting the rich storytelling crafted by creator Julian Fellowes and the talented cast and crew.
As anticipation builds, the release window for the new season is currently speculated to fall between 2026 and mid-2027. While no specific date has been provided, the schedule of previous seasons suggests a timeline of summer 2026 to spring 2027 for new episodes. The first season premiered in January 2022, followed by the second in October 2023 and the third in June 2025, each impacted by industry strikes.
Cast and Character Updates
While the main cast is expected to return for the upcoming season, there are uncertainties regarding certain characters. Key actors likely to reprise their roles include Carrie Coon as Bertha Russell, Phylicia Rashad as Mrs. Elizabeth Kirkland, and Cynthia Nixon as Ada Brook. Notably, Morgan Spector’s future as George Russell remains in question following dramatic events in the previous season.
As of now, only John Adams (played by Claybourne Elder) has exited the show, having died in the third season. The rest of the main cast is poised to return, barring any unforeseen departures.
As the series progresses, viewers will be keen to see how characters navigate their evolving relationships. The complexity of George Russell’s situation, particularly after the cliffhanger ending of season three, raises questions about his role in the narrative moving forward.
Plot Developments and Speculations
The conclusion of season three left audiences on edge, with George Russell facing a life-threatening situation. After a dramatic confrontation, he was shot but managed to survive, leading to a tense dynamic between him and Bertha. In the final moments of the season, George expressed doubts about his love and trust for Bertha, complicating their relationship just as their daughter, Gladys, announced her pregnancy.
Carrie Coon, who portrays Bertha, indicated that her character will not easily accept this upheaval. In interviews, she noted Bertha’s resilience and her determination to navigate the challenges ahead, stating, “Her wheels are already turning about how she’s going to fix it.” This suggests that viewers can expect Bertha to take decisive actions in response to her shifting family dynamics.
In contrast, Morgan Spector hinted at the potential for reconciliation, sharing, “It would be really fascinating to see them spend a season figuring out how to get back to each other.” This reflects a broader theme of transformation and resilience that the show has explored since its inception.
As fans await further details, the interwoven lives of the characters promise to deliver the rich drama and societal commentary that has characterized The Gilded Age. With its talented ensemble cast and compelling plotlines, the upcoming season is highly anticipated in the landscape of contemporary television.
While a trailer for the new season has yet to be released, updates will be provided as production progresses. The show’s ability to engage audiences with its exploration of class, ambition, and personal relationships ensures that The Gilded Age remains a significant player in the realm of period dramas.
