Carrie Coon, a native of Copley, Ohio, is experiencing a remarkable year as she returns to the screen in the anticipated third season of HBO’s “The Gilded Age,” slated to premiere on June 22. Following her significant and memorable role in the latest season of “The White Lotus,” Coon reprises her character, Bertha Russell, the wife of a robber baron, whose ambitions and desires continue to unfold in gripping fashion.
The new season, created by Julian Fellowes of “Downton Abbey” fame, begins with Bertha emerging from the cutthroat opera war, now setting her sights on achieving a new level of social standing. Coon, who graduated from Copley High School in 1999 and later studied English and Spanish at the University of Mount Union, reflects on her role, noting that while Bertha appears confident, there are cracks beneath her poised exterior. This season, Bertha experiences isolation and communication issues with her husband, George, adding layers of vulnerability to her character.
Coon points out that Bertha’s relentless pursuit of status might serve as a cautionary tale. Despite her intentions of protecting her family and ensuring her daughter, Gladys, has agency through advantageous marriages, Coon emphasizes the emotional toll this fixation has on everyone around Bertha. This parallel between ambition and neglect resonates across centuries, as Coon draws comparisons with her character from “The White Lotus,” Laurie, who also grapples with the pressures of social dynamics and isolation in a different era.
Reflecting on her own Ohio roots, Coon expresses nostalgia for local landmarks like Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, an exquisite representation of Gilded Age wealth. She fondly recalls childhood visits and performances at the historic site, linking her past experiences with the grand narratives portrayed in her current roles.
As the series returns, Coon’s characters remind us of the complex struggles of women across different time periods, showcasing the enduring themes of ambition, vulnerability, and societal expectations. The interplay of these narratives suggests a hopeful message about the continuous quest for identity and purpose, regardless of the era.
Catch the third season of “The Gilded Age” at 9 p.m. on June 22, only on HBO and streaming on Max.