'The Gilded Age' Season 3 Finale Raises Uncertainty Over Russells' Marriage Fate

The Season 3 finale of HBO's The Gilded Age, titled "My Mind Is Made Up," depicts the unraveling marriage of George and Bertha Russell amidst mounting personal and business challenges. George, who survives a near-death shooting, grows increasingly angry with Bertha, especially over her role in pushing their daughter Gladys into a loveless marriage for social status, which he sees as a betrayal and a violation of family sanctity. His business struggles, including the risk of financial collapse and losing key allies, exacerbate tensions at home, leading to a fracture in their once strong partnership. Both actors, Morgan Spector and Carrie Coon, describe George as feeling disappointed in himself and Bertha, unable to forgive either, while Bertha is portrayed as myopic to the emotional fallout of her ambitions. The finale ends with George deciding to go to New York alone, not sure if he wants Bertha in his life anymore, signaling a potential divorce and the end of their alliance. Despite this bleak ending, there remains hope for reconciliation in the upcoming Season 4, as Bertha is seen plotting to restore the family.