In the spectacular Season 3 finale of The Gilded Age, emotions run high as the Russells, Scott family, and New York’s elite face turning points that could reshape their futures. George survives a gunshot thanks to Dr. Kirkland, leading to moments of gratitude, societal tension, and questions about the Russells’ next move. Bertha hosts not one but two dazzling balls, stirring rivalries, reunions, and surprising alliances.

Peggy confronts heartbreak and public scrutiny, only to face a life-changing proposal. Marian wrestles with her feelings for Larry while navigating the Russells’ complicated family dynamics. Meanwhile, Mrs. Astor and Bertha’s power game takes a surprising turn, and Gladys delivers unexpected news that could shake the Russell marriage.

Join hosts Jason Reed and Marissa Garza with returning guest Bryce Isaiah as they break down every opulent detail — from society politics to behind-the-scenes power plays — and discuss what the ending might mean for Season 4.

Highlights from this episode:

• George’s dramatic recovery and Bertha’s redemption arc
• Peggy’s emotional confrontation with Dr. Kirkland and her powerful family support
• The “two-ball” showdown: high society vs. Brooklyn brilliance
• Marian and Larry’s romantic stalemate
• Mrs. Astor’s unexpected move at the Russell ball
• Gladys’s big announcement and a final scene that sets up next season

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In this episode of The Gilded Pod, we’re diving into The Gilded Age Season 3, Episode 7, titled “Excommunicated” — and trust us, it's the most explosive one yet. Hosts Jason and Marissa break down every twist, betrayal, and gasp-worthy moment of the latest HBO period drama installment.

From Ward McAllister’s shocking downfall to George Russell’s life-threatening cliffhanger, and Bertha’s social power plays to Oscar’s heartbreak, this recap has everything fans need to process the chaos and prepare for the season finale.

🔑 Highlights & Discussion Points:

• Ward McAllister’s Book Shakes NYC Society
  ➤ Real-life socialites react to “Society As I Found It” in a scandal that’s as delicious as it is dangerous.
• George Russell Shot in a Shocking Finale Twist
  ➤ We break down the lead-up, the aftermath, and the theories around who pulled the trigger (👀 Clay, perhaps?).
• Bertha Russell’s Reputation Is on the Line
  ➤ Her ambition isolates her from her family—just as she prepares to take over Mrs. Astor’s ball.
• Oscar van Rhijn Grieves in Secret
  ➤ A moving scene with Agnes hints at understanding and acceptance... maybe.
• Larry + Marian Implode in Peak Larian Drama
  ➤ Miscommunication, mistrust, and a surprise visit to her workplace make for some serious Gilded Age romance chaos.
• Dr. Franklin Kirkland and Peggy Scott’s Budding Romance
  ➤ Complicated by gossip and parental meddling—classic Gilded Age obstacles.
• Staff Drama: Leak Uncovered in the Russell Household
  ➤ Mr. Church solves the mystery (and snuffs out the mole) with Downton Abbey-level efficiency.
• Ada Breaks Free & Hosts a Suffrage Meeting
  ➤ Political organizing meets high society… and Ada might just be becoming a power player.

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• The Gilded Age Season 3 Episode 7 recap
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• Ward McAllister book scandal
• Bertha Russell ambition
• Marian and Larry breakup
• Oscar van Rhijn gay storyline
• Dr. Franklin Kirkland and Peggy Scott romance
• HBO period drama podcast
• Julian Fellowes show analysis

🧵 Threads We’re Following:

• Will George survive and what does that mean for the Russell dynasty?
• Is Agnes finally understanding Oscar’s identity?
• Can Marian and Larry reconcile before the finale?
• How will Peggy and Dr. Kirkland move forward?
• Will the ball solidify Bertha’s status… or destroy her?

✨ Favorite Moments from the Hosts:

• Christine Baranski’s legendary face acting
• Marian’s absolute chaos logic re: relationships
• Bertha’s isolation scene = Emmy-worthy
• Dr. Kirkland’s picnic game = elite

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🎉 Season 3 finale!
Will Bertha’s ball crown her queen—or be her undoing?
Will Marian finally use her words?
Will Oscar get some peace?
And… is George Russell dead?!

Subscribe now so you don’t miss our final episode breakdown.

Plot twists, social scandals, and emotional farewells — this episode of The Gilded Age moves at a breakneck pace (and sometimes a horse’s pace). Jason and Marissa break down John Adams’ shocking fate, Marian’s mess, JJ’s glow-up, and Bertha’s maternal power moves in England. Plus: Oscar’s redemption arc, Larry’s Arizona gamble, and why we all need to look both ways before crossing the street.

🔍 In This Episode

💥 Major Moments

• John Adams' Death: A literal collision course that ends in tragedy. Was it predictable? Was it Downton Abbey-style chaos? Let’s talk about Julian Fellowes’ love for surprise exits.
• Oscar’s Moral Dilemma: From threatening Maude Beaton with a candlestick to buying her a ticket out of town — we unpack Oscar’s “Captain Save-a-Ho” energy and his bittersweet love story with John Adams.
• JJ's Exit (and Windfall): JJ leaves the Van Rhijn household with dignity — and $300K. We talk legacy, mixers, and whether he’s our next Gilded Age mogul.
• Marian & Larry’s Engagement Crumbles: Marian’s full meltdown over Larry’s alleged night at the Haymarket turns a relationship bump into a full breakup letter.
• Gladys vs. Lady Sarah: A masterclass in soft power. Bertha helps Gladys assert herself — and we witness a duchess-in-training deliver the coldest clapback of the season.
• Bertha in London: Bertha’s restrained but effective intervention in her daughter’s new life proves she can rule even from across the Atlantic.
• George’s Business Crisis: JP Morgan, Clay, and a potential financial collapse loom large — but will Larry’s Arizona copper find save the day?

💬 Social Dynamics & Social Justice

• Peggy & Dr. Kirkland: Sparks fly — but Mrs. Kirkland is not a fan. Peggy’s teacup diplomacy with Frances Ellen Watkins Harper brings suffrage politics and respectability politics to the forefront.
• Ada’s Grief & Strength: A psychic and a heartfelt hug from Agnes. We talk about Ada’s emotional arc and what it reveals about agency and vulnerability.

🕊️ PSA Corner: Look Both Ways

Yes, we opened this episode with a traffic PSA — because some tragedies are avoidable. Stay aware, stay safe, and stay with us for the drama.

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