WARNING: This article contains spoilers for the Season 3 finale of The Gilded Age.
George Russell, portrayed by Morgan Spector and a titan of the railroad industry, narrowly escaped death thanks to a life-saving surgery performed by Dr. William Kirkland, played by Jordan Donica. This dramatic turn of events occurred after an assailant disguised as a courier shot him at his office.
The suspenseful penultimate episode not only heightened the tensions within George and Bertha Russell’s marriage, played by Carrie Coon, but also affected Marian Brook, portrayed by Louisa Jacobson. Marian found herself deeply involved with the Russell family crisis, rushing to their side, especially to support Larry (Harry Richardson), despite their recent disagreements over Larry’s indiscretions.
With the show’s renewal for a fourth season announced mid-season, the future of George’s and Bertha’s rocky relationship hangs in the balance, leaving viewers eager to see what’s next.
“For me, the major storyline for Season 4 would definitely revolve around George’s recovery from this assassination attempt,” Spector shared with Deadline. “It would be fascinating to see if this experience changes their approach towards their workers or if it leads them to engage more in charitable works.”
Despite his brush with death, George made an effort to support Bertha by attending Mrs. Astor’s (Donna Murphy) Newport Ball, looking surprisingly healthy. However, he plans to return home the next day, which disheartens Bertha. George explains his actions as merely fulfilling her social aspirations and safeguarding his business interests, while also contemplating his daughter’s controversial marriage to The Duke of Buckingham.
“What we’re seeing with George is a real ethical dilemma, stemming from the life he leads versus the values he holds,” Spector explained. “He’s struggling with his role in his daughter Gladys’ marriage and is in a process of self-reflection, trying to reconcile with his past actions or possibly redefine his identity. I’m really looking forward to exploring these themes.”
RELATED: ‘The Gilded Age’ Producers Discuss George’s Pivotal Decision in Season Finale: “He Believes Bertha Influenced Him Against His Better Judgement”
When questioned about whether George’s relentless pursuit of his railroad ventures is sparked by Bertha’s societal ambitions, Spector affirmed that their ambitions are mutually intense and inherent to their relationship.
“It’s not something that needs to be stated; it’s the core of their bond—that they both push themselves to the utmost in their respective spheres,” he commented.
Coon added that it would significantly lessen Bertha’s attraction to George if he were to lose his ambitious edge. As Season 4 approaches, the dynamics of George and Bertha’s marriage, as well as their individual societal roles, will be key points of interest.
RELATED: Reality & Myth in HBO’s ‘The Gilded Age’ – From Genuine Historical Figures to Technological Progress
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