SPOILER ALERT: This article contains details about Season 3, Episode 7 of The Gilded Age, titled "Ex-Communicated," which aired on August 3 on HBO.
On a typical day, Le Pain Quotidien’s Bryant Park location is a far cry from the lavish 61st Street mansion where the Russell family reigns over New York society in the opulent world of HBO’s The Gilded Age. Unfortunately, this isn’t one of those days—air conditioning issues have left the restaurant sweltering, and large fans roar like freight trains, desperately battling the humidity. Morgan Spector, who portrays George Russell, has traded his 19th-century power suits for a casual T-shirt and jeans. We were scheduled to meet to discuss the shocking cliffhanger from the latest episode, where George, a ruthless industrialist with a soft spot for family, finds himself shot at the end of Season 3, Episode 7. Our original plan was to meet at the Morgan Library, a stunning remnant of the Gilded Age in Manhattan, but alas, it’s closed on Mondays. "This is a bit less grand," Spector quips. "I doubt anyone will treat us to high tea here."
Despite a rocky start in its first season, The Gilded Age has gained significant traction among critics and audiences alike. Last year, the series earned an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Drama Series, and the current season has achieved record ratings. This week, HBO confirmed it is renewing The Gilded Age for another season. Spector has certainly felt the surge in interest. "I’m noticing more fans approaching me on the street, and the online discussions have exploded," he shares. "It seems like the show really took off in the second season and continues to build momentum."
Much of the buzz revolves around the unraveling of the Russell marriage. For the first two seasons, George and his wife, Bertha (played by Carrie Coon), functioned as a well-oiled machine—George amassed their fortune while Bertha spent it to secure their social standing. However, Bertha’s decision to marry off their daughter, Gladys (Taissa Farmiga), to the Duke of Buckingham (Ben Lamb) against George’s wishes has strained their relationship. In previous seasons, George confided in Bertha about his corporate challenges, but this season, he has largely kept her in the dark about his reckless ambitions to build a transnational railroad.
"We’ve crafted a midlife crisis for George Russell this season," Spector explains. "He’s reached the pinnacle of his success but struggles to find new challenges. Does he lose his mind? Does he seek out even riskier ventures?" As George fights for his life, Spector reflects on his character’s fate amidst business rivalries and personal turmoil that threaten to bring down his empire.
How worried should we be for George?
"Very worried," Spector responds. "In the 19th century, gunshot wounds were perilous. Many didn’t survive them. I don’t have a contract for next season yet, so who knows what the future holds?"
How did you feel when you learned about George’s shooting?
"The final scripts were delayed, so it took a while for me to get them. When I finally read the ending, I was ecstatic—it’s such an unexpected twist for our show. It’s historically accurate too; similar events happened back then, even though it doesn’t quite feel like The Gilded Age. The timing felt eerily relevant, especially after the recent high-profile shooting incidents."
This week’s conversation comes shortly after Jeff Bezos’ extravagant wedding to Lauren Sanchez in Venice, which echoes the opulence of Gladys’ wedding this season. "It’s fascinating to see how the eccentricities of the 19th century mirror today’s elite celebrations, where wealth is flaunted as a display of power," Spector notes.
George and Bertha’s relationship is precarious this season. Did you foresee this turmoil?
"I suspected it would happen after the second season concluded. George has repeatedly emphasized to Gladys the importance of marrying for love, so it felt inevitable."
Why does George care so deeply about his daughter’s happiness?
"His ruthless business persona is deeply intertwined with his family values. He justifies his cutthroat decisions by claiming it’s all for his loved ones. In his domestic life, he strives to be caring and tender. George’s objection to Gladys marrying the Duke stems from his desire for her happiness."
Is there more to George’s disdain for the Duke?
"Carrie and I might debate this, but while Billy, Gladys’ love interest, may not be a perfect reflection of a younger George, the Duke represents an implicit critique of George’s empire. Despite his wealth, George’s power can’t compete with the legacy of a 500-year-old English estate."
Looking back, was the gunshot in the first episode foreshadowing?
"Only in hindsight. We didn’t have the later scripts while filming that scene, but watching it later, it certainly felt like Chekov’s gun."
Why has George cut Bertha out of important discussions this season?
"Their communication has completely broken down, especially after the conflict over Gladys. Both are so consumed by their ambitions that they’ve lost the connection they once had."
Are the traits that fueled George’s success now leading to his downfall?
"Absolutely. His relentless ambition has served him well, but it’s a double-edged sword. He should have paused on the railroad expansion, but personal distractions—his troubled marriage and strained relationship with Gladys—have clouded his judgment."
It seems Larry may be emerging as a worthy successor. Is George proud of him?
"George originally wanted to mold Larry in his image, but Larry has dabbled in various interests. Now that he’s returned to the family business and shown promise, it’s gratifying for George. At least one child hasn’t let him down yet."
As the cast and crew awaited news of a potential third season, Spector admits there were concerns about cancellation. "We were all on multi-year contracts, but during the strike, everything was uncertain. Many felt our show might be on the chopping block. However, as the second season progressed, we suddenly saw a growing audience. When we received the call for renewal, it was exhilarating because we genuinely enjoy working together."
Some critics have noted that the show sometimes feels slow, but this season has seen weddings, divorces, and even shootings. "It’s important to remember that this period spans 30 to 40 years of American history. The first season was essentially world-building—introducing characters and their complexities. Now, we’re able to explore deeper narratives. The stakes of even small actions are incredibly high, which makes period dramas so compelling."
You’ve gained a reputation as a sex symbol thanks to The Gilded Age. How has that experience been?
"It really comes down to the character. There’s something magnetic about a man who is both powerful and tender. Engaging an audience is ultimately what every actor desires, and I’m grateful for the recognition. Though it’s fleeting, it’s certainly flattering."
For more updates on The Gilded Age and behind-the-scenes insights, stay tuned!
