The Gilded Age Kills John Adams in Accident

The Gilded Age Season 3 Episode 6 featured the sudden death of John Adams, Oscar van Rhijn's secret lover, who was fatally struck by a horse-drawn carriage after an emotional exchange with Oscar. Showrunners Julian Fellowes and Sonja Warfield clarified that the accident was random and not politically motivated, intended to provoke character change for Oscar. The episode drew criticism for its limited portrayal of queer romance, especially in contrast to Fellowes' Downton Abbey. Elsewhere, Ada Forte began to find hope following personal loss, Marian Brook showed signs of instability, and Jack Trotter made an emotional exit. New threats loomed for the Russell family as well. The loss of the show's only significant LGBTQ storyline left fans heartbroken and frustrated, as expressed widely online.