The Gilded Age Season 3, Episode 2, “What the Papers Say” Spoilers Ahead
If last week’s “Who Is in Charge Here?” delivered a clear picture of how society knows no logic, then “What the Papers Say” carefully underscores the importance of transparency and mature conversations. So much of the reason why The Gilded Age continues to shine is that it allows its brilliant ensemble cast to each get a moment of character development, and no season thus far has done such a riveting job of it as its third.
We’re in an informative stage for these characters, and it continues to be astounding how showrunners ensure that every decision is full of nuance. Only two episodes in, yet it’s so clear that where we’re headed is about to change the show’s trajectory in countless forms.
The Gilded Age Season 3, Episode 2 Features Significant Conversations
One of the areas in which the series does a dynamic job of exploring vital topics is by immediately following up on the matter that Agnes’ doctor refused to treat Peggy solely because she is a Black woman. Backed by brilliant performances from Christine Baranski, Audra McDonald, and John Douglas Thompson, we get an incredible beat of dialogue when Peggy’s father essentially makes it clear that Agnes should’ve known better. While her father raised her to be kinder and more welcoming, she’s smart enough to know that the rest of the world is still more vile. Racism is a tremendous issue in 2025, and though Peggy is thankfully fine, Agnes’ carelessness could have cost her life.
In moments like this, it’s indeed best to simply listen—to really hear people and grasp what they’re saying. It’s admirable that it’s exactly what Agnes does. She states her beliefs, but she doesn’t excuse her own mistake or dismiss Mr. Scott’s particularly real concerns. In addition, the beats of vulnerability where two fierce women allow themselves to open their hearts will always matter here at Lady Geeks, so I adored seeing both Agnes and Mrs. Scott voice the fears and terrors of almost losing a child. Both Baranski and McDonald are absolute powerhouses in every regard, and even their quiet conversations feature a throbbing cadence that shoots straight to the heart.
Elsewhere, Mothers and Daughters Don’t See Eye to Eye
The Gilded Age Season 3, Episode 2, “What the Papers Say,” continues to pit Bertha and Gladys Russell against each other, making it clear that it will be a long road before these women walk in the same path. Yet, conveniently, this storyline continues to be so intensely riveting because it’s easy to understand both sides.
George Russell is back home in New York and still attempting his biggest railroad expansion risk yet, but where he has little say is indeed in the matters of Gladys’ love life. We knew that this would be the case, despite the fact that he once promised his daughter he would let her marry for love. Yet, what ultimately stands out here is the power dynamics that are coming into play between George and Bertha.
What we’re watching unfold between the once indomitable duo isn’t just a difference in how they raise children but the realization of where they stand on the societal scale. As Bertha states, she’ll allow him to have a say in matters of the heart once he gives her the platform to attend boardroom meetings. At the same time, what’s so easy to appreciate about what’s happening is that everything not only feels in character, but it’s easy to question and understand where they’re coming from.
Bertha Russell might not exactly know her daughter, but The Gilded Age Season 3, Episode 2, “What the Papers Say,” also proves that Gladys Russell isn’t in a position to determine a life-altering match. And interestingly, this is where we can draw parallels to Marian Brook because she also didn’t know in the beginning. Finding a love that’s real and true doesn’t always happen on the first try. And sometimes, as showcased through Aurora Fane’s current predicament, forever proves to be a temporary matter.
Billy’s cowardice and his inability to fight for his love of Gladys ultimately establish that he’s no match for Bertha or George Russell. It’s unfortunate that we have to watch Gladys pay the price through an unexpected heartbreak, but I can’t help but think she dodged a bullet with him. Now, this doesn’t mean that Bertha’s right and Hector, or anyone she chooses, can be a better match, but it’s really fascinating how this series explores the idea of a love that’s forced and one that blooms naturally. It’s also gripping that it’s not a black or white answer—there’s so much to examine in all this that I can’t wait to keep doing so.
Larry and Marian Sneaking Around Continues to be Everything
I’m ready for more people to finally learn that Larry and Marian are courting, but I’m also not ready to let go of this adorable sneaking-around business. Larry continues to be so besottedly in love that I do actually think he would’ve had a breakdown if I didn’t kiss her in the carriage. Harry Richardson continues to nail every beat of Larry’s adoration, making every word out of his mouth feel so believable, soft, and tender.
“What the Papers Say” would’ve been a dreary episode without Larry and Marian bringing in sweet moments of levity. They also continue to be such a riveting contrast to showcase what it means to fall in love gradually, find love after heartbreak, and grow with the person who’s undoubtedly your person. However, Marian and Larry also have a long path ahead of them to continue said growth, yet the two of them stand out because of the friendship they’ve developed and their shared beliefs. It’s presenting a solid argument for a love that’s uncovered as opposed to one that’s forced, and I can’t wait to continue asking questions about these different relationships. More than anything, I can’t wait to keep watching him watch her.
The Gilded Age Season 3, Episode 2, “What the Papers Say,” also sets up a fascinating storyline about where Peggy’s arc can go in writing and how to distinguish between reality and gossip. We’re only two episodes in, but everything that we see continues to illustrate how every little choice has a domino effect on the future, playing upon this idea of what it means to actually have agency or when it’s nonexistent. In addition, as Aunt Ada says, certainty in love isn’t a guaranteed thing, so it’s captivating how this idea is unraveling different forms of love, including platonic. We’re seeing it through so many characters, and as it threads them all together in various ways, it makes the entire season that much more admirable.
Stray Thoughts
- Miss Armstrong remains the absolute worst, and I’m all here for everyone calling out her blatant racism and bigotry.
- What on earth is Gladys’ outfit in this episode?!!
- “Neither of us would be here today if it weren’t for ambition.” Now, isn’t that the truth?
- This railroad will require more money than George has and the risk is enormous, so hi, yes, I’m stressed?!
- Okay, but Gladys is being somewhat petulant in this episode, which again is so gripping in terms of character complexities.
- The tension between George and Bertha is actually destroying me a bit. Like ??!?? Hot but also a little stress-inducing?!
- Aurora, baba, kick Charles in the [redacted]! You have my permission and you deserve better, queen. Gah, Kelli O’Hara is so good in this scene at the stairs.
- Ada smiling while reading the pledge shouldn’t be as funny as is. My God, I love this show.
- A small development, but I adore Larry taking Jack to the meeting.
- The couch in Gladys room is so small!???
- The conversation between George and Gladys is so good. How is a man so even-tempered here?
- The staff still not knowing who’s in charge is so funny.
- “A lack of moral judgement is a sort of illness.” Louder.
- LARRY RUSSELL, YOU BESOTTED FOOL
- He’s in love with her. I’m in love with them.
- Larry’s curls this week are ruining me, actually.
- We’re really testing Oscar this season and it’s hilarious, but hi yes, I am once again stressed.
- “I’d do anything for you.” Of course you would, John 🥹
- WHO LET CHARLES IN?!!
- This man has the wildest audacity???!
- “I am not your aunt Agnes anymore.” That delivery was terrifying.
- “He’s English! His loyalty is to the queen and to the bottle.”
- I know that at times, this show will test me, but I continue to be so thankful for this cast. Every performance is a HIT.
- I also really appreciate Gladys and Larry’s relationship as siblings. They remain so wholesome..
- Thought about Larry’s curls again. They’re going to carry me through the week, I’m sure.
Now streaming on HBO Max: What are your thoughts on The Gilded Age Season 3, Episode 2, “What the Papers Say?” Let us know in the comments below.
First Featured Image Credit: ©Photograph by Karolina Wojtasik/HBO