‘The Gilded Age’ season 4 review: HBO’s addictive period drama gets darker, juicier and even more watchable
Our review of ‘The Gilded Age’ season 4: The Russells' marriage cracks, a surprise power couple emerges, and Julian Fellowes delivers pure high-society escapism.
HBO's "The Gilded Age" season 4 continues to captivate viewers with its lavish period drama, taking on a darker and juicier tone. The show delivers a rich ensemble of characters that remain engaging, even amidst smaller conflicts. Set in New York, the season sees the usual elite navigating romance, family issues, and maintaining their social status.
Bertha Russell (Carrie Coon) and George (Morgan Spector) face marital troubles, while their daughter Gladys (Taissa Farmiga) prepares for motherhood in England. Agnes van Rhijn (Christine Baranski) adapts to a household where she no longer holds all the power, while Peggy Scott (Denée Benton) balances her writing career with her relationship to Dr. William Kirkland (Jordan Donica). Marian (Louisa Jacobson) and Larry Russell (Harry Richardson) remain complicated, causing frustration for viewers.
The season introduces compelling stakes for the Russell family, particularly as Bertha and George's relationship faces strain due to their unstoppable power. Agnes has her own ambitions, creating a clash with Bertha as both vie for the opportunity to host President Grover Cleveland (guest star Jim Gaffigan). The show also continues to explore upper-class Black Americans, with Peggy Scott's (Denée Benton) growing success as a writer and the unconventional partnership between Oscar van Rhijn (Blake Ritson) and Enid Winterton (Kelley Curran).
The season maintains its exploration of the world of upper-class Black Americans, with Phylicia Rashad shining as Elizabeth Kirkland and Audra McDonald as Peggy's mother. Oscar and Enid form a formidable duo, and the household dynamics between Agnes and Ada (Cynthia Nixon) deliver entertaining bickering. However, the show's romance subplots, such as Marian and Larry's, can feel contrived and frustrating.
Overall, "The Gilded Age" season 4 remains a sumptuous treat for period drama lovers, with excellent production design, costumes, and performances.
Written by urgent.news from Tom's Guide's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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