[Editor’s note: The following contains some spoilers for Season 3 of The Gilded Age.

Throughout the initial two seasons of the HBO series The Gilded Age, it appeared that George (Morgan Spector) and Bertha Russell (Carrie Coon) could surmount any obstacle, as long as they faced challenges together. However, after a third season laden with tension surrounding every aspect of their lives, relationships, and business dealings, the Season 3 finale, titled “My Mind Is Made Up,” serves as a poignant reminder that social success cannot guarantee personal happiness. Following a harrowing near-death experience, George’s frustration with Bertha’s actions has rendered their marriage more precarious than ever, leaving the matriarch of the Russell family isolated in her attempts to mend their fractured bond. If anyone possesses the capability to restore their family harmony, it is undoubtedly Bertha Russell, but viewers will need to wait for Season 4 to discover whether she succeeds.

In a recent interview with Collider, co-stars Coon and Spector shared their feelings regarding the daunting task of exploring the escalating conflict between Bertha and George, the shocking near-loss of George, the pervasive jealousy surrounding the character Turner (Kelly Curran), Coon’s hopes for Merritt Wever’s return in Season 4, their favorite moments from Gladys’ (Taissa Farmiga) wedding, the growth of Bertha and Gladys’ relationship, and their desire for George and Bertha to reconcile.

Carrie Coon and Morgan Spector Eagerly Anticipated Peggy’s Romantic Journey in ‘The Gilded Age’ Season 3

“I squealed with delight at Denée’s story this year.”

Collider: Season 3 feels like the season where you can just jump right in with everything and everyone. What were you most excited to explore this season?

MORGAN SPECTOR: I’ve sensed this brewing conflict between George and Bertha since the conclusion of Season 2, so I was both dreading and eagerly anticipating how it would unfold. Witnessing the reversal of Ada and Agnes was thrilling. Without a Season 3, we would have experienced a significant loss. Additionally, Denée’s character has endured tremendous hardships, including the loss of a child. Thus, it was exhilarating to see the romantic possibilities for her develop throughout this season.

CARRIE COON: For us, I wasn’t thrilled to share our story with the fans because it feels tragic. Everyone adores our loving, respectful, and passionate marriage, yet it has been tumultuous all season. We continuously strived for scenes that conveyed our connection, which made it somewhat disheartening. However, I appreciate that it began in the Wild West. The crazy assassination attempt was thrilling, and yes, I squealed with delight at Denée’s storyline this year. I cherish every instance we delve deeper into the Black diaspora within the series. I’m thrilled that this aspect is becoming a more significant part of the narrative, showcasing Black high society in New York—a portrayal rarely depicted in this era, making it incredibly exciting.

It’s interesting that Turner keeps reappearing, which I doubt Bertha appreciates. How does Bertha currently feel about Turner? Would she prefer never to see her again?

COON: I believe there is a begrudging respect for what Turner has accomplished. One of the delightful aspects of this season is that Blake knows who she is, allowing her to let her guard down with him, resulting in a unique arrangement. This marks a significant turning point in her character arc. Plus, Kelly is such a wonderful presence on set; her charm can be infuriating. Everyone truly adores her. I often feel insecure when she is around. There was a moment during the ball scene when she sashayed down the red carpet; the wind perfectly stirred her gown, making her look like she was at the VMAs. Everyone was cheering, while I was filled with envy and frustration. I’m ready for Kelly Curran to move on.

She’ll never be Bertha.

COON: It doesn’t feel that way when you’re performing alongside her.

Carrie Coon and Morgan Spector Yearn for Bertha and George to Reconnect in ‘The Gilded Age’ Season 4

“We don’t want to leave George and Bertha like this.”

With Gladys’ pregnancy, the turmoil surrounding George and Bertha, and the need for more Merritt Wever, I’m yearning for Season 4. Do you hope to delve deeper into these narratives?

COON: We don’t want to leave George and Bertha in this state.

SPECTOR: We would love to find a way to restore them to their former selves, but I’m uncertain how that will occur. It’s not impossible, and I would be fascinated to see how they navigate this path.

COON: As far as I’m concerned, Merritt Wever should just move in. She can continue to shine in all HBO shows. I recently saw her in Severance, and she was phenomenal. She cannot do wrong; she’s the most authentic actor alive, making you feel utterly exposed. This show often leaves me feeling insecure.

A near-death experience can dissolve tension between couples. Watching Bertha’s gratitude toward Dr. Kirkland for saving her husband is intriguing. Will this shift dynamics with everyone involved? Does Bertha revert to her scheming ways?

COON: I think she’s come to realize how shocking losing George would be. She doesn’t fully grasp how precariously close she is to losing him—not physically, but in terms of their intimacy. By the end, when he departs, it’s quite startling for her because she believes that the end justifies the means, and everything is working out correctly. He nearly perished, and now they comprehend the depth of their love, especially after his miraculous recovery. They even feel less prejudice now that they’ve done something kind for a Black doctor.

SPECTOR: They gave a Black man some money; they’re not racist, right?

COON: They feel quite proud of themselves. Bertha is even allowing one of her children to marry for love. Shouldn’t she earn some points for that? She feels as though everything is falling into place. There’s newfound clarity for Bertha. Naturally, she will scheme again. Now, her scheme is to win her husband back, a focus she never anticipated for Season 4, but she’s determined to do whatever it takes. She’s indefatigable. It’s an unquenchable thirst.

Gladys’ wedding was even more extravagant than the series’ most lavish events. What was it like to shoot that wedding? What were your favorite moments?

COON: Taissa Farmiga had to cry for about 16 hours straight to benefit our performance.

SPECTOR: Not merely cry, but wail. The production design in that church was breathtaking, adorned with stunning hanging flowers. Her dress was spectacular, and she appeared utterly miserable. The contrast was delightful.

COON: I cherished having Merritt there, holding a mirror up to her in the way only siblings can, knowing each other so intimately yet driving each other insane. It was enjoyable to have Merritt present. The set pieces continue to grow larger, better, and flashier. We’re all eager for Season 4 as well.

‘The Gilded Age’s Bertha Russell Strengthens Her Bond with Her Married Daughter

“Bertha does have some lessons to share that will actually be useful.”

One of my favorite moments this season was Bertha going to visit Gladys, and Gladys having this moment of realization that maybe she’s more like her mother than she thought. What was that moment like to share with Taissa Farmiga?

COON: Julian is open to allowing his characters to evolve. If characters remain stagnant, watching becomes uninteresting. I hold immense affection and respect for Taissa Farmiga; she has a much longer career than I do and brings a wealth of experience. It was incredibly fulfilling for us to portray that connection, especially since we’ve always been at odds. This moment signifies a potential resolution for mother and daughter as they start to transition into a phase of life where they can become friends, which is something I’m far from experiencing at the moment. My daughter is only three. Thus, I found this development very authentic. Bertha indeed has some lessons to impart that will prove beneficial, and her daughter is beginning to perceive Bertha in a new light. She’s genuinely proud of Gladys for embracing her own power. This is everything she has desired for her daughter, and it’s finally coming to fruition.

Bertha is always right. You just don’t necessarily realize it in the moment.

COON: Exactly. Yes, I can relate. I’m also always right. That’s a fitting note to conclude on, for sure.

The Gilded Age airs on HBO and is available for streaming on HBO Max. Don’t miss the Season 3 mid-season trailer: