Gilded Age Season 3: Major Character Death and Cliffhanger

In Season 3 of The Gilded Age, viewers experienced a heartbreaking twist: the sudden death of John Adams, played by Claybourne Elder. His character, known for his gentle nature and secret romance with Oscar van Rhijn, met an untimely end in Episode 6. After a poignant farewell scene with Oscar, John steps onto a busy street and is struck by a horse‑drawn carriage. The news of his death hit fans hard, especially because it came without warning and cut short a storyline that was gaining emotional depth.

The loss stirred strong reactions among the show’s LGBTQ+ audience. Many viewers felt the sudden death echoed the “bury your gays” trope, in which promising queer characters are tragically removed from the narrative. Oscar’s grief was depicted authentically, but many fans lamented the decision to end his partner’s arc abruptly. Critics highlighted how the show, which had gradually developed Oscar’s inner life, pulled back just as his relationship seemed poised for meaningful exploration.

Despite John’s death being written as an accident within the story, fans and critics alike questioned the narrative choice. His character had become integral to the emotional heartbeat of the season—and his absence opened a void both on‑screen and in the audience’s engagement. The discussion raised broader concerns about representation and the pacing of queer storylines within prestige television.

Episode 7 Ends with a Stunning Cliffhanger: George Russell’s Fate Uncertain

Just one episode later, The Gilded Age delivered another dramatic moment. In Episode 7, “Ex‑Communicated,” viewers are left on the edge of their seats. George Russell, portrayed by Morgan Spector, appears to survive the family’s fortune and win back control of the railway empire. Yet the peace is shattered when a masked assailant storms a gathering at his gentlemen’s club and opens fire—ultimately shooting directly at George.

The scene cuts to black just before revealing whether George survives. The abrupt end intensifies its impact, following so closely on John Adams’ death. Viewers are left pondering George’s fate and wondering how the Russell family will cope without a clear resolution. The uncertainty also raises stakes for the broader narrative: can the powerful clan hold together when its foundation is shaken?

Critics praise the suspenseful editing and pacing of the episode, noting that it feels like two seasons packed into one arc. Some have expressed disappointment at the pacing of character arcs—especially Oscar’s storyline, which loses momentum shortly before climax. Yet the cliffhanger also sets up high expectations for the finale, with many fans eagerly awaiting answers in the coming weeks.

With HBO confirming a fourth season in production, this finale-style ending feels like a bridge to even darker developments. George’s fate now stands as a central question for the next chapter.