It should really come as no surprise, but our obsession with period dramas seems to be never-ending. From the moment Bridgerton burst onto our screens and the world unexpectedly – but collectively – fell into a trance, we've been hanging patiently for a new series that could even come close. As it turns out, our penchant for high-society drama might be satisfied sooner than we thought; with news of a new series, The Gilded Age set to be the ultimate Bridgerton meets Gossip Girl crossover we've always wanted.
The HBO series takes us to 1882 – a period of immense economic change, huge fortunes and loss – where we're introduced to an orphaned woman named Marian Brook; the daughter of a Southern general who moves in with her aunts in New York City.
It isn't long before Brook finds herself woven into the framework of Manhattan's elite, with some very familiar faces – Sex and the City's Cynthia Nixon included – enveloped in the whirlwind alongside her.
If you're a sucker for romance, ballgowns and a touch of gossip, The Gilded Age is the perfect solution to cure your period drama woes. Here's what we know about the series so far.
What is The Gilded Age about?
Against this backdrop of change, the story begins in 1882 — introducing young Marian Brook, the orphaned daughter of a Union general, who moves into the New York City home of her thoroughly old money aunts Agnes van Rhijn and Ada Brook.
Accompanied by Peggy Scott, an accomplished African-American woman, Marian inadvertently becomes enmeshed in a social war between one of her aunts and her stupendously rich neighbours. Just the usual trials and tribulations, am I right?
The series' title takes it name from the real-life era in which affluent New York families like the Vanderbilts and publishing moguls the Hearsts, established their fortunes. There's no doubt this exorbitant and mind-boggling wealth will shine through in The Gilded Age, and we can't wait to see it.
Who has been cast in the series?
As we mentioned, The Gilded Age is filled with star-studded appearances. The leading role of Marian is held by none other than Meryl Streep's daughter, Louisa Jacobson; and her confidant Peggy portrayed by Denée Benton. Nixon takes on the role of Marion's aunt Ada, with Christine Baranski the other half of the duo as Agnes.
Watch the trailer for The Gilded Age below.
When will The Gilded Age premiere in Australia?
There's no word just yet on when The Gilded Age will premiere in Australia. But given that it is releasing in the US in late January, we shouldn't have to wait too much longer.
Image: YouTube
