‘The Gilded Age’ Creator On Why That Episode 6 Death Was More Than Just a Plot Twist

Season 3 of “The Gilded Age” has been packed with opulent parties, high-stakes scheming, and ruthless ambition—but episode 6 delivered the season’s most gut-wrenching moment yet. In a devastating twist, fan-favorite John Adams, played by Claybourne Elder, was suddenly killed in a carriage accident just moments after sharing a heartfelt exchange with Oscar van Rhijn (Blake Ritson). The shocking death has left viewers reeling—and series creator Julian Fellowes is opening up about the emotional and historical weight behind the scene.

Julian Fellowes Weighs in On John Adams’ Shocking Death

Before tragedy struck, John offered Oscar both financial support and a vote of confidence, promising to bring in a new investor after Oscar’s fortune was stolen by the con artist Maud Beaton (Nicole Brydon Bloom).

“This is where we part,” John said, assuring Oscar that he’d return soon with a fresh lead. Oscar, visibly moved, replied, “You are my savior. I thank you with all my heart.”

But before the two could go their separate ways, John stepped into the street to hail a carriage—only to be struck and killed on the spot. Oscar was left in stunned silence, standing over his friend’s lifeless body as the screen faded to black.

In an exclusive interview with People, Julian Fellowes explained that John’s death wasn’t just about shock value—it reflected the emotional toll of living a hidden life in a time of societal repression.

“There are a lot of people inevitably in a society that is pretty intolerant of any aberration, so it means a lot of pretending,” Fellowes said. “Oscar manages his double life more or less successfully, but when real grief comes into that, it’s all unbalanced. You can’t just pretend that nothing’s happened.”

‘The Gilded Age’ Star Claybourne Elder Reflects on John’s Legacy

For Elder, portraying John Adams in “The Gilded Age” was more than just a role—it was a chance to give voice to a historically silenced community.

“The Gilded Age has been such a meaningful experience for me,” Elder told Out Magazine. “As a queer actor, getting to portray a queer character in this particular historical setting feels both exciting and important.”

Elder emphasized the historical resonance of his character. “The late 19th century wasn’t exactly a time when queer people could live openly, and yet we know they existed, loved, and found ways to carve out spaces for themselves,” he said.

“What I love about John is that he’s complex—he’s navigating a world that doesn’t necessarily make room for him, but he has this desire to do what’s right,” he added. “It’s a reminder that queer people have always been part of the story, even if history hasn’t always chosen to spotlight them. I feel incredibly honored to bring that to life.”

“The Gilded Age” season 3 airs Sundays at 9:00 p.m. ET/PT on HBO and Max. 

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