The eagerly awaited third season of "The Gilded Age" is ramping up its production, unveiling a quartet of captivating new cast members that are bound to ignite excitement among theater aficionados. The illustrious quartet consists of Phylicia Rashad, Brian Stokes Mitchell, Victoria Clark, and Jordan Donica, who are poised to take on fresh roles in the upcoming installment on HBO, though a specific release date remains shrouded in mystery.
Accompanying the June 17 casting announcement was the first tantalizing glimpse into the narrative threads of "The Gilded Age" Season 3. The captivating logline hints at the thrilling storyline: "The American Gilded Age was an era of profound economic and social upheaval, where fortunes were forged and shattered overnight. With the establishment firmly deposed, New York society finds itself in a state of flux, scrambling to restore order. But even those at the helm of this new era may discover that the price of change can be steep."
In this vibrant new season, Rashad, Mitchell, and Donica will embody a dynasty of Brooklyn's Black elite, while Clark will step into the shoes of a woman hailing from Manhattan's old money circles. Rashad and Donica will reprise their roles as recurring characters, while Mitchell and Clark will make guest appearances, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the proceedings.
Rashad shines as Mrs. Elizabeth Kirkland, a woman of impeccable lineage from Newport, whose roots stretch back to the American Revolution. Possessing lofty standards and an occasionally sharp wit, she is resolute in maintaining the standards and expectations of her elite and exclusive social circle — especially when it comes to her son.
Donica portrays Dr. William Kirkland, a kind-hearted and handsome doctor hailing from the esteemed Kirkland family. Unlike the more rigid members of his elite social circle, he possesses a broader perspective. His journey to becoming a doctor was inspired by a childhood visit to Arthur Scott's (John Douglas Thompson) pharmacy, where he was moved to help others.
This exciting new season of "The Gilded Age" promises to delve deeper into the intricate tapestry of society during a time of unprecedented change, offering viewers a glimpse into the lives of these remarkable characters as they navigate the pitfalls and possibilities of the Gilded Age.
Mitchell takes on the role of Frederick Kirkland, the esteemed patriarch of the Kirkland clan. As the husband of Elizabeth Kirkland, gracefully portrayed by Rashad, and the proud father of Dr. William Kirkland, masterfully enacted by Donica, he stands tall as the pastor of a prestigious Black church and a pillar of the Newport community.
Clark breathes life into Joan Carlton, a benevolent and genteel woman hailing from the aristocratic circles of New York's high society. A woman of sincerity and unwavering support to her son, she finds herself unexpectedly embroiled in a complex and insulting situation. Joan seems to be the mother of Billy Carlton, who was previously seen in Season 2 alongside Gladys Russell, brought to life by the talented Taissa Farmiga.
Mitchell's casting marks a reunion with Audra McDonald in the spirit of Ragtime, as the Tony Award winners shared the stage in the original Broadway cast of the renowned musical in the 1990s. Moreover, Kelli O'Hara, who plays Aurora Fane, also holds a special place in the history of the production. This quartet of newcomers to The Gilded Age continues the tradition of the show boasting an ensemble of Tony Award-nominated and winning actors.
Both Rashad and Clark boast impressive two-time Tony Award wins, with Rashad being recognized for her performances in A Raisin in the Sun and Skeleton Crew, while Clark took home the honors for The Light in the Piazza and the 2023's Kimberly Akimbo. Mitchell earned his Tony for his breathtaking portrayal in Kiss Me, Kate. Donica, on the other hand, received a Tony nomination in 2023 for his outstanding work in the revival of Camelot, the same season that saw Clark's triumph for Kimberly Akimbo.
The Gilded Age is a collaboration between HBO and Universal Television, a division of Universal Studio Group. Created, written, and executive produced by the mastermind behind Downton Abbey, Julian Fellowes, the show boasts Sonja Warfield as a writer and executive producer. Gareth Neame, David Crockett, Michael Engler, and Salli Richardson-Whitfield serve as additional executive producers, with the latter two also helming episodes this season. Erica Dunbar lends her expertise as the historical consultant and co-executive producer. The casting is meticulously handled by Bernie Telsey and Adam Caldwell from the Telsey Office, ensuring that each role is brought to life by the most fitting talent.
