The Gilded Age star Morgan Spector recently addressed the shocking cliffhanger from Season 3 Episode 7, where his character George Russell is shot and may die. Speaking in a new interview, Spector reflected on George’s fate and the show’s rising popularity. He also discussed how the latest twist aligns with the series’ broader themes of power, wealth, and consequence.
The Gilded Age’s Morgan Spector says ‘you should be very worried’ for Russell
A mysterious intruder shoots George Russell in his study at the end of The Gilded Age Season 3 Episode 7. In an interview with Variety, Morgan Spector, who plays George, confirmed that fans “should be very worried.” He added, “In the 19th century, gunshot wounds from up close were extremely dangerous. Many people didn’t survive them. I don’t have a contract for next season yet, so who knows?”
Spector revealed he received the final scripts late, and reading the ending left him “thrilled” because “it’s such a left turn for our show.” He described the shooting as “totally historically accurate,” referencing the Luigi Mangione incident as a parallel. “Julian Fellowes is clairvoyant. There’s a way that this show, however subtly, is really in dialog with our current moment,” he said.
Throughout Season 3, George kept Bertha in the dark about his transnational railroad project. Spector said this season builds “quite a midlife crisis for George Russell,” as his marriage and relationship with his daughter crumble. He explained, “His ruthlessness is justified by his commitment to protect his family… So in the domestic sphere is where you have to be your best.”
The Russell marriage fractures after Bertha pushes Gladys to marry the Duke of Buckingham. Spector pointed out George’s stance: “I will make sure you marry for love,” referencing his repeated assurances to Gladys in past seasons. On the Duke, he added, “That no matter how powerful [George] is… it’s still not going to mean as much… as a 500-year old family estate in England.”
Financially, George wagers heavily but is saved when Larry discovers valuable mines. “At least he has one child that he hasn’t let down yet,” Spector said. Contracts lapsed during the strike, adding uncertainty to cast returns. HBO has renewed the series for Season 4.
Originally reported by Anubhav Chaudhry on ComingSoon.
