HBO’s Downton Abbey Replacement Officially Makes Major Comeback Ahead of Season 4, Rated 9/10
A return to New York society
The Gilded Age will premiere its fourth season on Sunday, November 1, 2026, on HBO and HBO Max. Its first of eight episodes is scheduled for 9 p.m. ET/PT.
Created by Julian Fellowes, the series sets its conflicts among the grand homes and wealthy circles of nineteenth-century New York. Social standing, marriage and money shape the rivalries as much as any formal confrontation.
Marian enters a new world
Marian Brook, an orphaned daughter of a Southern general, moves to New York to live with her traditional aunts. Peggy Scott, a mysterious African-American woman who presents herself as Marian’s maid, accompanies her.
The pair encounter affluent neighbors that include railroad magnate George Russell and his wife, Bertha, whose efforts to gain acceptance among the Astor and Vanderbilt set drive much of the drama. Season 3 ended with Bertha’s social ambitions putting her marriage to George under pressure.
Family consequences ahead
The season’s official description says Bertha has reshaped society, but her family must now face the repercussions. Agnes van Rhijn sees a chance to reclaim her standing, while Marian begins a different course.
Peggy, meanwhile, tries to win acceptance from her future in-laws. The description warns that in the changing social order, people may not like the results of their wishes.
Returning cast and streaming
Carrie Coon plays Bertha Russell, with Morgan Spector as George. Christine Baranski returns as Agnes van Rhijn, Cynthia Nixon as Ada Brook, Louisa Jacobson as Marian Brook and Denée Benton as Peggy Scott.
Taissa Farmiga, Harry Richardson and Audra McDonald are also returning. The first three seasons can be streamed now on HBO Max.
Key points
- Season 4 begins November 1, 2026, on HBO and HBO Max.
- The premiere is scheduled for 9 p.m. ET/PT, with eight episodes planned.
- Bertha and George’s troubled marriage carries into the new season.
- Marian, Peggy and Agnes each face a new turn in their lives.