The hosts recap the season finale and discuss character developments. They explore etiquette issues and power play between Mrs. Astor and Bertha. They also discuss the process of creating the big ballroom scene and express interest in further exploration of the Gilded Age.

Denée Benton, shaping Peggy's storyline, joins the hosts to discuss her character's development. Bob Shaw, the production designer, talks about the creative decisions made for the show. They explore the lavish mansions and activities of the Gilded Age in Newport, Rhode Island. Topics also include the tragic Pestigo fire, dinner parties, controversial socialites, and the dynamics of servants' living conditions. The chapter on recreating an erased world and the transformative experience of working with other actors is also discussed.

In part one, hosts Alicia Malone (TCM) and Tom Meyers (The Bowery Boys) discuss American art, innovation, electricity, indoor lighting and how it changed New York during the Gilded Age. In part two, the hosts are joined by Carrie Coon (Bertha Russell) and Director Michael Engler to discuss the research they did to prepare for the production, the parallels between the 21st century and the Gilded Age, and the production decisions that were made to create Edison’s illuminating display of electricity .  Watch The Gilded Age on HBO Max, and subscribe to The Official Gilded Age Podcast so you don’t miss an episode! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Actress Taissa Farmiga and property master Michael Jortner join the hosts to discuss pre-production and character development for The Gilded Age. They talk about selecting and creating props, the challenges of filming dining scenes, and the unnerving abundance of dolls on set. The hosts also explore the figures and roles of men, women, and servants during the Gilded Age, as well as the rules and etiquette of dining at the time.

Louisa Jacobson and Thomas Cocquerel join the hosts to discuss the roles of men and women during the Gilded Age, the significance of domestic helpers, the dynamics of power and society, and the development of their characters' romantic relationship on the show.

Audra McDonald and Dr. Erica Armstrong Dunbar discuss the development of the Scott family storyline and black America in 1882. They explore the exclusive clubs of the Gilded Age and the possibility of servant-master affairs. The podcast also highlights the existence of a black elite in New York City during the 1880s and the erasure of their stories. They discuss assumptions and biases among the characters based on race and social class. Peggy's career working for a black owned newspaper and the relevance of the Gilded Age era are also explored.

Cynthia Nixon and Salli Richardson-Whitfield join hosts to discuss decision-making behind a complex episode and production. They share a serendipitous shot that created a beautiful moment on screen. The podcast also explores the industries booming during the Gilded Age, like railroads and newspaper/journalism, and the struggles faced by people of color in high society. Excitement about Broadway actors and a preview of the next episode are shared.

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.

Lord Julian Fellowes and Christine Baranski join the podcast to discuss creating the vision for the show and bringing Aunt Agnes to life. They explore the wealth disparities and social hierarchy of Gilded Age New York, the challenges of filming a period drama, and the significant role of women in shaping society during that time.

The Official Gilded Age Podcast is a companion to HBO's original series “The Gilded Age.”  This drama series is set in late 1800s New York, where a social war is raging between new money and old. After each episode, join hosts Alicia Malone from TCM and Tom Meyers from The Bowery Boys as they discuss what happened on screen; the real people, places,  and events featured on the show; the power struggles within New York's high society; and the changes in architecture, transportation and technology, Each week they’ll be joined by some of the cast and crew who bring the show to life -- the directors, historians, costume designers, and more, all sharing exclusive behind-the-scenes interviews and fun-filled history.  Watch The Gilded Age on HBO Max starting Monday, January 24th and subscribe to The Official Gilded Age Podcast so you don’t miss an episode. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices