The Gilded Age is undoubtedly the show of the summer.
Viewership has never been higher, and the internet is awash with memes and discussions of “Railway Zaddy” and “Clock Twink. It’s definitely the show to watch, and the season finale will probably reach its highest viewership yet.
HBO has jumped on its popularity and has already announced its 4th season.
That’s right. It’s the 4th season. Because The Gilded Age is not a new show.
It originally premiered in 2022 and frankly was not a hit. Despite being created by Julian Fellowes, of Downton Abbey fame, the first season had lackluster reviews and was not particularly well-watched. Of course, period drama fans watched it and loved it, but it did not create the splash that HBO surely wanted. It was certainly no Bridgerton.
And now, in its third season, it has found its footing. As Christine Baranski, who plays the indomitable Agnes Van Rhijn, said, the first two seasons set up the background and the society, and now season three is ready for the drama.
And the drama has come. in spades.
And we are all thrilled.
As I reflect on the third season’s success compared to the first two, I can’t help but see it as a cautionary tale for streamers and studios. How many excellent shows were canceled after the first season because of slightly lackluster ratings?
They were perfectly decent shows that were only cancelled because they weren’t an automatic cultural and ratings hit. Maybe they could have grown if they were given slightly more time to grow?
We used to rag on Netflix for cancelling shows right away, but other streamers and studios are guilty of the same (looking at you, Prime Video).
My mind goes to My Lady Jane, Lockwood and Co, 1899, Etoile, and so many more fan-favorites that could have found their audience if they only had been given more time.
As a lover of period dramas, My Lady Jane, in particular, makes me sad for the wasted potential.
Maybe the executives and the decision-makers could take The Guided Age as a cautionary tale and a lesson: give the shows a chance, and maybe you’ll have another hit on your hands.
The Gilded Age Season 3 is now available on HBO Max. The Season 3 finale will air on Sunday, August 10, 2025, at 9:00 p.m. ET on HBO and Max.