The Gilded Age Season 2 delivered drama, romance, and power struggles as the Russell and van Rhijn families fought for control in 1880s New York. With Season 3 arriving soon, here’s everything you need to know about the major storylines.
Season 2 of The Gilded Age brought bigger stakes, shocking twists, and emotional turns. The HBO period drama, created by Julian Fellowes, continued exploring the clash between old and new money while diving deeper into character arcs. From Bertha Russell’s ruthless social climb to Marian Brook’s romantic dilemmas, here’s a full recap.
Bertha Russell, played by Carrie Coon, became the center of Season 2 as she battled New York’s elite for dominance. Her biggest fight was the “opera war,” where she backed the new Metropolitan Opera against Mrs. Astor’s favored Academy of Music. The rivalry reached its peak when Bertha secured the Duke of Buckingham’s attendance at the Met’s opening night—but at a cost.
“Bertha essentially sold Gladys over to the duke in order to win her opera war and win over New York society. It’s not looking good for sweet, innocent Gladys.”
Bertha’s daughter, Gladys Russell (Taissa Farmiga), was used as a bargaining chip. In the finale, Bertha pushed Gladys toward the Duke, hinting at an arranged marriage. This decision angered George Russell, setting up a major conflict for Season 3.
George Russell’s Labor Struggles and Family Tensions
George Russell (Morgan Spector) faced challenges in his business as workers went on strike. He initially resisted union demands but later avoided violence by negotiating. Meanwhile, his marriage to Bertha was tested when he discovered her deal with the Duke.
“Would seeing Gladys in an unhappy marriage make matters worse? Previous casting updates reveal that the women’s suffrage movement and Bertha’s family history will both be topics this season.”
Season 3 will explore George and Bertha’s strained relationship, with divorce rumors swirling.
Marian Brook and Larry Russell’s Romance
Marian Brook (Louisa Jacobson) had a turbulent Season 2. She briefly got engaged to her cousin-in-law, Dashiell Montgomery, but called it off after realizing he still loved his late wife. By the finale, she shared a surprise kiss with Larry Russell (Harry Richardson), Bertha’s son.
Their slow-burning friendship turned romantic, setting up a potential love story in Season 3. However, their different social standings—Marian from old money, Larry from new—could cause problems.
The van Rhijn Family’s Financial Crisis and Ada’s Surprise Inheritance
The van Rhijns faced ruin after Oscar van Rhijn (Blake Ritson) lost the family fortune in a bad investment. Agnes van Rhijn (Christine Baranski) prepared to sell their home, but a twist saved them.
Ada Brook (Cynthia Nixon), Agnes’ sister, inherited wealth from her late husband, Reverend Luke Forte. This shifted power in the household, with Ada now controlling the finances.
“Things may be a little different in the future, Agnes, but I’m sure we’ll work it out,” Ada said. Agnes replied, “Are you? Are you really?”
Their dynamic will be a key focus in Season 3.
Peggy Scott’s Career and New Love Interest
Peggy Scott (Denée Benton) had a difficult season, quitting her job at The New York Globe after complications with her married editor. She decided to focus on writing a novel.
Season 3 will introduce a new love interest for Peggy—Dr. William Kirkland, a Newport doctor. However, his parents may disapprove of her career.
What to Expect in Season 3
Bertha vs. George: Their marriage is at risk after Bertha’s decision about Gladys.
Gladys’ Arranged Marriage: Will she marry the Duke, or will George intervene?
Marian & Larry’s Romance: Can their relationship survive societal pressures?
Ada vs. Agnes: The sisters’ power struggle continues.
Peggy’s New Journey: Her writing career and potential romance with Dr. Kirkland.
The Gilded Age Season 3 premieres June 22, 2025, on HBO and Max.
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