About The Gilded Age | HBO Original

The Gilded Age is a HBO Original drama series that takes audiences back in time to 1880s New York City. The series encapsulates a time bursting with new money, constitutional monarchies, rapid social changes, and extreme wealth disparity. This period was also known as the establishment of American Aristocracy.

Making / Production

Created by Julian Fellowes, the mastermind behind Downton Abbey, The Gilded Age is directed by Michael Engler and S.J. Clarkson. The picturesque period sets and grandeur of the era were brought to life by production designer Bob Shaw and costume designer Ellen Mirojnick.

Actors

• Carrie Coon as Bertha Russell - Her portrayal of a nouveau riche woman trying to establish a foothold in the rigid society was quite convincing.
• Morgan Spector as George Russell - An entrepreneur who's tasted success, Spector offers a stoic performance which is remarkable.
• Louisa Jacobson as Marian Brook - Entering the society, the fresh-faced innocence of her character is embodied brilliantly.
• Christine Baranski as Agnes van Rhijn - A stand-out performance, as a strait-laced matriarch, she proficiently showcases her inherently commanding presence.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The title refers to the period in American history between the end of Civil War and turn of the 20th century.
• The show makes historical references, such as President Chester A. Arthur's controversial term and Opera's rise in popularity during this era.
• The Gilded Age was originally announced in 2012 and was originally planned to air on network television.
• Many of the filming locations are authentic and carefully renovated historic sites.

Quotes

• "Money is never vulgar" - George Russell.
• "There is nothing beyond our reach given time and audacity" - Bertha Russell.
• "If we don't break the rules, how do we move forward?" - Marian Brook.

Music, Soundtrack

• "Prelude in D minor" - Johann Sebastian Bach
• "The Blue Danube Waltz" - Johann Strauss II
• Score music by Harry Gregson-Williams and Rupert Gregson-Williams.