The scandalous real history behind The Gilded Age

How much of The Gilded Age period drama is real? HistoryExtra's Elinor Evans reveals an ambitious millionaire whose real life story mirrors Bertha Russell's ruthless social climbing

Published: November 6, 2026 at 3:01 PM

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Behind the glittering mansions, extravagant parties and fierce rivalries of New York's 19th-century high society on screen, there are some remarkable true stories that served as inspiration for Julian Fellowes' drama The Gilded Age, now in its fourth season on HBO Max.

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HistoryExtra's Elinor Evans reveals an ambitious millionaire whose real life story mirrors Bertha Russell's ruthless social climbing. You'll hear how she fought her way into America's most exclusive social circles, challenged the formidable Mrs Astor, and forced her daughter to marry a British duke.

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Find out more about the wealth, power struggles and heartbreaking scandals that helped inspire the hit period drama, and discover how the woman who controlled her daughter's future went on to make a surprising pivot that would change the lives of many women forever.

Authors

Elinor EvansHead of digital (web and video)

Elinor Evans is head of digital (web and video)

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