After being in development at the network since 2012, NBC has finally given a series order to original drama The Gilded Age written by Downton Abbey creator Julian Fellowes. The 10-episode first season will debut in 2019.
The Gilded Age in 1880s New York City was a period of immense social upheaval, of huge fortunes made and lost, and of palaces that spanned the length of Fifth Avenue. In the series, Marion Brook is the wide-eyed young scion of a conservative family who will embark on infiltrating the wealthy neighboring family dominated by ruthless railroad tycoon George Russell, his rakish and available son Larry, and his ambitious wife Bertha, whose "new money" is a barrier to acceptance by the Astor and Vanderbilt set. Marian is about to experience a whole new world springing up right outside her front door.
Oscar and Emmy winner Julian Fellowes executive produces with Gareth Neame. Universal Television produces.
"To write The Gilded Age is the fulfillment of a personal dream," said Fellowes. "I have been fascinated by this period of American history for many years and now NBC has given me the chance to bring it to a modern audience. I could not be more excited and thrilled. The truth is, American is a wonderful country with a rich and varied history, and nothing could give me more pleasure than be the person to bring that compelling history to the screen."
"Julian Fellowes has the peerless ability to create complex characters and relationships set against a fantastic backdrop," said Jennifer Salke, President of NBC Entertainment. "We're thrilled that NBC and Universal Television will bring you his delicious new take on both the emerging rich and the working class who were intricately entwined in opulent New York in 1882. It's an addictive new universe of fabulous people with the same signature style, wit and emotional resonance for which Julian is famous."
