‘Masterpiece’ period drama is streaming free on ITVX – and it’s ‘the new Downton Abbey’

The Gilded Age is now streaming on ITVX, with fans of the lavish HBO series comparing it to writer Julian Fellowes' most successful period drama to date, Downton Abbey.

The opulent series, which first aired in 2022, follows the story of Marian Brook (played by Louisa Jacobson), who moves in with her old-money aunts in 1880s New York, and she soon becomes entangled in a class war between them and their neighbours who come from new money. Marian must decide whether to follow her family's rules or find her own path as fierce rivalry grows between the two camps.

Thousands of viewers have highly praised The Gilded Age on IMDb, giving it an IMDb rating of 8.1 stars out of a possible 10. One penned: "The Gilded Age is best reviewed as a stand-alone series, and not any sort of spin-off or successor to the immensely successful Downton Abbey."

They added: "It's not Downton Abbey, nor does it pretend to be. It is, however, a peek into the extravagant lives of the very rich in Post Civil War America."

A second remarked: "What's not to like? Fabulous sets, beautiful and authentic costumes, Broadway actors, and an intriguing storyline. This isn't something to over-analyse; just enjoy it."

Another shared: "Julian Fellowes' mighty pen is back (and even more cheekier) in this lavish production. This time, dealing with aristocratic socialite snobbery of the ugly kind, ruthless business affairs, political sabotage, hidden homosexual relationships, racial prejudices, and society control freaks.

"And we're talking about the year 1882! It was a radical period in New York's upper society with the changing of the guard among the wealthy and the young radical breed coming into play. With snappy and sassy dialogue, infused with a grand soap opera worthy of a Verdi music score."

The cast includes The White Lotus' Carrie Coon, Morgan Spector, Denee Benton, Taussa Farmiga and Harry Richardson who are in all 17 episodes of the stellar series.

Ahead of the third season airing in the US later this month, leading actress Louisa told ELLE: "What’s exciting about season 3 is that...you hear from her more about her motivations, her fears, and why they exist. That’s definitely something I advocated for....You’re going to see, oh right, she’s traumatised, and...the effects of that.”

She teased: “There are a lot of twists and turns that no one’s going to be ready for."

The Gilded Age seasons one and two are available to stream on ITVX, while season three will premiere on Sunday, June 22, at 9/8c on HBO.