‘The Gilded Age’ Season 3 Finale Spoilers: Bertha’s Ball, George’s Fate & Oscar’s Secret

The season 3 finale of “The Gilded Age” is nearly here—and it’s shaping up to be the most dramatic episode yet. Titled “My Mind is Made Up,” the finale brings together the season’s biggest storylines for a high-society showdown. From Bertha Russell’s make-or-break ball to George Russell’s unexpected gunshot wound, here’s everything we know about what’s coming up in episode 8.

‘The Gilded Age’ Official Synopsis: Bertha’s Ball and Final Reckonings

According to HBO’s official synopsis, “The Gilded Age” season 3 episode 8 sees Bertha Russell facing off against Mrs. Astor as she finalizes the guest list for her grand ball. Despite objections from New York’s queen bee, Bertha moves forward—setting the stage for a social showdown with major consequences. Meanwhile, Dr. Kirkland must decide whether to continue his future with Peggy Scott, Oscar Van Rhijn reconnects with someone from his past, and Marian Brook continues struggling to move forward emotionally and romantically.

Oscar’s storyline in particular has caught fans’ attention. With John Adams’ tragic carriage accident still fresh, producers have noted that Oscar’s development this season—especially his grief and growing vulnerability—wouldn’t have been possible if John had survived. His next moves in the finale may determine whether he finally embraces his true self or continues hiding behind social convention.

Why Morgan Spector Says He Was ‘Thrilled’ About George Russell’s Shocking Shooting

Episode 7 ended with one of the most unexpected moments in the series to date. A courier arrived at the Russell home with a delivery for George Russell—only to pull out a gun. After shooting the family’s butler, Jones, he turned the weapon on George and pulled the trigger. The screen cut to black.

So how does Morgan Spector, who plays George, feel about his character being shot? He told TVLine he’s “thrilled.” “That happened,” he said, referring to how men in George’s position would have faced real dangers during the era. “It just didn’t feel like the kind of thing that would happen on ‘The Gilded Age,’” he added. “And that’s what I love about it.”

Carrie Coon, who plays Bertha Russell, echoed the sentiment, saying this season intentionally pushed the show’s boundaries. “It started with how we kicked things off in the Wild West [in the season premiere],” she said. “It was signaling to the audience that this is not season 2. We’re doing new things.”

Where Every Major Character Stands Before ‘The Gilded Age’ Finale

Heading into episode 8, tensions are high across nearly every storyline. Oscar is reeling after John left him a house and money, a final gesture of love. In his grief, Oscar nearly revealed the true nature of their relationship to Agnes and Ada.

Meanwhile, Ward McAllister has been iced out by New York society, led by Mrs. Astor herself, after his tell-all book spilled the secrets of the city’s elite. At the Russell estate, Miss Andre was revealed as the household mole, while George clashed with Bertha about her never-ending ambition. Their staff successfully set a trap to expose the betrayal, but the fallout may not be over yet.

Elsewhere, Gladys Russell received a sign of true devotion when the Duke told Lady Sarah to find her own place. Larry tried convincing Marian that nothing scandalous happened at the haymarket, even bringing Jack in to back up his version of events. And after learning about Peggy’s past from his mother, William made it clear he wants to hear directly from Peggy before making any major decisions about their future. Lastly, George had Clay fired—raising suspicions about whether Clay may have played a role in orchestrating the shooting.

“The Gilded Age” season 3 finale airs Sunday at 9 p.m. ET on HBO and Max.

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