S1 Ep.2: “Money Isn’t Everything” with Morgan Spector and Lauri Pitkus
Feb 1, 2022
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Morgan Spector and Lauri Pitkus join the hosts to discuss the development of George's character and the unique approach to scouting and securing locations. They also explore notable NYC locations of the Gilded Age and the important role of gatekeepers in building. They talk about the shopping district of Lady's Mile, social expectations, corruption among city officials, and creating realistic locations using visual effects. They also discuss George Russell's ruthless nature and the details of dining scenes on the show.
Lady's Mile introduced new innovations to make shopping more pleasant for women during the Gilded Age, such as set prices and private fitting rooms.
Young female immigrants played a significant role in both the garment industry and domestic work during the Gilded Age in New York City.
George Russell's character in 'The Gilded Age' represents a successful union where both partners flourish, displaying mutual respect for each other's ambition and will to power.
Deep dives
The Influence of Lady's Mile on Women's Fashion in 1880s New York
Lady's Mile, the shopping district in 1880s New York, was known for its enormous department stores that catered to women. Macy's, Lord & Taylor, Be Altman, and Arnold Constable were among the upscale stores in the district. These department stores were different from those that came before in terms of size and design, with many taking up entire city blocks and featuring cast iron structures with large windows. Lady's Mile also introduced new innovations to make shopping more pleasant for women, such as set prices, respectful and handsome male sales clerks, lounges, and private fitting rooms.
The Growth of the Garment Industry in 1880s New York
The garment industry in 1880s New York grew rapidly, with thousands of workers, including young female immigrants, employed in over 6,000 factories. One in every three residents made a living in the business, which initially concentrated in downtown areas, often within tenement apartments. However, as the city expanded, the garment district moved further up Manhattan. These immigrants also worked as domestic workers for wealthy families, highlighting their presence in both the manufacturing and service sectors of society.
The Rise of Robber Barons and the Importance of Marriages of Convenience
George Russell, portrayed as a robber baron like Vanderbilt and J. Gould, exemplifies the ruthless business practices of the Gilded Age. His marriage to Bertha is portrayed as a marriage of convenience, where they both recognize and support each other's ambition. Their relationship is a counterpoint to the cattiness and competitiveness seen among other characters. It represents a successful union where both partners flourish, with their mutual respect for one another's ambition and will to power forming a strong foundation.
The Challenges of Finding and Creating Authentic 19th Century New York Locations
The location manager, Lori Pitkis, faced the challenge of finding and creating authentic 19th century New York locations for the show. Due to the limited number of existing mansions and period-appropriate buildings, the team had to employ a mix of real locations and sets. They utilized various mansions in Nassau, Long Island, and Westchester, along with building a backlot in Troy, New York, to recreate exteriors. Additionally, the team worked with the Central Park Conservancy to shoot at the iconic Bethesda Terrace and Fountain, with extensive logistics and arrangements to ensure the period authenticity of the scenes.
Balancing Ruthlessness and Likeability in George Russell's Character
Morgan Spector, who portrays George Russell, discusses the balance between ruthlessness and likeability in his character. George is depicted as a cutthroat businessman, willing to do whatever it takes to succeed. However, his love and affection for his wife Bertha humanize him and provide depth to his character. The audience sees their marriage as a strong union built on mutual respect and ambition. This compelling portrayal allows the audience to simultaneously appreciate and question his actions, making George a complex and intriguing character.
In part one of this week’s episode hosts Alicia Malone (TCM) and Tom Meyers (The Bowery Boys) explore notable New York City locations of the Gilded Age and also examine those that are relevant today. They react to events that take place leading up to the grand bazaar and discuss the important role of gatekeepers that the city aldermen played when building in New York City during the Gilded Age.
In part two, the hosts are joined by Morgan Spector (George Russell) and Lauri Pitkus (Locations Manager) to discuss the development of George’s character and the unique approach the show took to scouting and securing locations.
Watch The Gilded Age on HBO Max, and subscribe to The Official Gilded Age Podcast so you don’t miss an episode.
