Gilded Age Cast: Meet the Stars of HBO’s Lavish Historical Drama

Introduction: Bringing the Gilded Age to Life

HBO’s The Gilded Age, created by Julian Fellowes (Downton Abbey), transports viewers to 1880s New York—a world defined by opulence, ambition, and social change. At the heart of its storytelling is the Gilded Age cast, a meticulously selected ensemble of acclaimed actors and rising talents. Their performances breathe life into an era of lavish mansions, rigid social hierarchies, and the clash between old money and new.

Let’s explore the key players in this glittering world and the characters that keep viewers coming back for more.

The Russell Family – New Money Power Players

The Russells embody the unapologetic ambition of America’s new industrial elite.

• Bertha Russell (Carrie Coon) – A social climber with unmatched determination, Bertha is intent on breaking into New York’s elite society. Carrie Coon delivers a layered performance, balancing Bertha’s steely resolve with moments of vulnerability.

• George Russell (Morgan Spector) – A railroad magnate with a keen business mind and a ruthless streak when threatened. Spector’s portrayal captures both the charisma and danger of a self-made titan.

• Gladys Russell (Taissa Farmiga) – The Russells’ sheltered daughter, eager to make her social debut despite her mother’s control. Farmiga plays her with youthful charm and quiet rebellion.

• Larry Russell (Harry Richardson) – The Russells’ son, navigating the expectations of wealth while forging his own path.

The Brook-Van Rhijn Household – Old Money Establishment

Representing New York’s entrenched elite, the Brook-Van Rhijn home is a bastion of tradition.

• Agnes Van Rhijn (Christine Baranski) – The epitome of old money authority, Agnes fiercely guards the boundaries of high society. Baranski’s sharp wit and commanding presence make her a standout.

• Ada Brook (Cynthia Nixon) – Agnes’s kinder, more open-minded sister. Nixon imbues Ada with warmth and quiet strength, often serving as the show’s moral compass.

• Marian Brook (Louisa Jacobson) – A young woman from Pennsylvania who moves in with her aunts and is torn between tradition and progress. Jacobson’s portrayal is fresh and engaging.

• Oscar Van Rhijn (Blake Ritson) – Agnes’s charming yet calculating son, whose ambitions extend beyond polite conversation.

Friends, Allies, and Rivals

The social web of The Gilded Age extends beyond its central households.

• Peggy Scott (Denée Benton) – An ambitious African-American writer navigating both racial and gender barriers. Benton’s performance is nuanced and inspiring.

• Aurora Fane (Kelli O’Hara) – A well-connected socialite whose loyalties can shift as quickly as the fashions.

• Bannister (Simon Jones) – The Van Rhijn’s dignified butler, who upholds the family’s traditions with quiet pride.

• Turner (Kelley Curran) – Bertha’s ambitious lady’s maid, who blurs the lines between service and manipulation.

• Mrs. Astor (Donna Murphy) – Based on the real-life socialite, Murphy’s Mrs. Astor is the gatekeeper of New York society.

Below Stairs – The Servants Who Keep the Mansions Running

While the high-society drama unfolds upstairs, the staff’s world is just as dynamic.

• Watson (Michael Cerveris) – The Van Rhijn’s loyal footman, whose personal secrets hint at a hidden past.

• Mrs. Bauer (Kristine Nielsen) – The cook with a warm heart and a sharp tongue.

• Mrs. Bruce (Celia Keenan-Bolger) – The Russells’ housekeeper, a steady hand in the bustling household.

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Guest Stars and Recurring Roles

The show’s historical backdrop is enriched by recurring appearances from figures based on real people of the era. These guest roles, often played by Broadway veterans and screen favorites, add texture and authenticity to the world Julian Fellowes has created.

Why the Gilded Age Cast Works So Well

The magic of The Gilded Age lies in its ensemble performance:

• Range of Talent – From Emmy winners like Christine Baranski to Broadway stars like Kelli O’Hara, the cast blends screen and stage expertise.

• Chemistry – Relationships feel authentic, whether it’s Bertha and George’s power couple dynamic or Agnes and Ada’s sisterly debates.

• Historical Immersion – Meticulous costuming, mannerisms, and dialogue delivery make the cast feel truly of their time.

Cast Summary Table

Frequently Asked Questions – Gilded Age Cast

1. Who plays Bertha Russell in The Gilded Age?
   Carrie Coon portrays Bertha Russell, the ambitious and strategic wife of a railroad magnate.
2. Who are the main characters in The Gilded Age?
   Main characters include Bertha Russell, George Russell, Agnes Van Rhijn, Ada Brook, Marian Brook, Peggy Scott, and Oscar Van Rhijn.
3. Is The Gilded Age historically accurate?
   While the show fictionalizes certain events and characters, it’s heavily inspired by real people and the social climate of 1880s New York.
4. Who plays Agnes Van Rhijn?
   Christine Baranski plays Agnes Van Rhijn, delivering one of the show’s sharpest and most commanding performances.
5. Where can I watch The Gilded Age?
   The series is available on HBO and streaming via Max (formerly HBO Max).

Final Thoughts

The Gilded Age cast is a masterclass in ensemble storytelling, blending historical authenticity with captivating character arcs. Whether you’re drawn to the bold moves of the Russells or the steadfast traditions of the Van Rhijn household, this cast ensures every moment sparkles with intrigue, ambition, and the unrelenting push for social standing.

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