A Villain Done Right, a Gay Man Done Dirty in 'The Gilded Age'

A Villain Done Right, a Gay Man Done Dirty in 'The Gilded Age'

Header Image Source: HBO Max

HBO’s The Gilded Age has had a banner season so far. The series has improved much of itself in its embrace of tension and conflict, and shaped its first true arch-villain . The series has also recognized the value of Denée Benton’s Peggy with a juicy storyline that pits her against her doctor beau’s traditionalist mother (played by Phyllisha Rashad!). It’s a markedly better and more compelling series to watch in its third season than it’s ever been before. That said, The Gilded Age still knows how to disappoint. The remarkable and very welcome improvements also emphasize what still needs work. The difficult downside to getting better is the high standard that comes with quality. With The