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The Best Episodes of The Gilded Age Season 1

Every episode of The Gilded Age Season 1 ranked from best to worst. Discover the Best Episodes of The Gilded Age Season 1!

Binge this in 8h 19m•Peaking at 8.6/10

It’s 1882 and the Gilded Age is in full swing when Marian Brook moves in with her rigidly conventional aunts in New York City. With the help of Peggy Scott, an African-American woman masquerading as

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Episode Rankings

  1. #1 Fan Favorite
    The Gilded Age Season 1 Episode 1 - Never the New
    7.8/10(2652 votes)

    #1 - Never the New

    S1:E1

    1882. After the death of her father and accompanied by Peggy Scott, Marian Brook travels to New York to live with her aristocratic aunts, Agnes van Rhijn and Ada Brook. Meanwhile, determined to break into society, ruthless tycoon George Russell and his ambitious wife Bertha move their family into a lavish mansion across the street and prepare to throw their first soirée.

    Director:Michael Engler
    Writer:Julian Fellowes

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  2. The Gilded Age Season 1 Episode 2 - Money Isn't Everything
    8.0/10(1959 votes)

    #2 - Money Isn't Everything

    S1:E2

    Tom Raikes' visit to New York delights Marian but worries aunt Agnes. An increasingly desperate Peggy seeks legal advice from Mr. Raikes, George takes steps to further his latest business plans, Oscar van Rhijn homes in on young Gladys Russell, and a charity bazaar becomes the source of a dramatic stand after Bertha is slighted.

    Director:Michael Engler
    Writer:Julian Fellowes

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  3. The Gilded Age Season 1 Episode 3 - Face the Music
    8.3/10(1937 votes)

    #3 - Face the Music

    S1:E3

    An unfortunate development finds George's new rail station under threat. Despite Agnes' warnings, Marian continues to see Mr. Raikes, who lays his ambitions bare. Peggy learns that a publisher is interested in her stories. At a talk given by Clara Barton, Ada reunites with a childhood friend. Oscar grows attached to his plan, while Jack invites Bridget to a show.

    Director:Salli Richardson-Whitfield
    Writer:Julian Fellowes

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  4. The Gilded Age Season 1 Episode 4 - A Long Ladder
    7.9/10(1719 votes)

    #4 - A Long Ladder

    S1:E4

    In the aftermath of a tragedy, George makes a deal to help Bertha. Peggy gets an assignment from publisher T. Thomas Fortune, but a dinner with her parents ends on a sour note. Marian learns more about the mysterious Mrs. Chamberlain. Bannister's visit to the Russell house has a lasting impact on the staff. Bridget shares her dark secret with Mrs. Bauer.

    Director:Salli Richardson-Whitfield
    Writer:Julian Fellowes

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  5. The Gilded Age Season 1 Episode 5 - Charity Has Two Functions
    7.9/10(1792 votes)

    #5 - Charity Has Two Functions

    S1:E5

    George and Bertha extend an invite to a young man who's piqued Gladys' interest. After charming Mr. McAllister, Bertha accompanies Marian and Aurora to hear Clara Barton speak in Dansville. There, Peggy works on her article and shares the story of her first love with Marian, whose interest in Mr. Raikes continues to grow. Oscar crosses paths with a vengeful Turner.

    Director:Salli Richardson-Whitfield
    Writer:Julian Fellowes

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  6. The Gilded Age Season 1 Episode 6 - Heads Have Rolled for Less
    8.2/10(1519 votes)

    #6 - Heads Have Rolled for Less

    S1:E6

    Bertha goes all out at a luncheon to impress Mr. McAllister, enlisting the help of Bannister — who rubs Church the wrong way. George fights to protect his public image, while Agnes' status quo is disrupted. As Marian debates her feelings, Mrs. Chamberlain makes her an offer. Gladys bonds with a new friend. Armstrong intensifies her campaign against Peggy.

    Director:Salli Richardson-Whitfield
    Writer:Julian Fellowes

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    The 20 BEST Episodes of The Gilded Age

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  7. The Gilded Age Season 1 Episode 7 - Irresistible Change
    8.0/10(1502 votes)

    #7 - Irresistible Change

    S1:E7

    As the city buzzes over Edison's electricity demonstration, Bertha plans a picnic that involves Mr. Raikes — but not Marian. Agnes entreats her niece to protect the family's reputation. George prepares for a legal battle as he bristles over Larry's career ambitions. Bannister plots his revenge. Turner gets an unwelcome surprise.

    Director:Michael Engler
    Writer:Julian Fellowes

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  8. The Gilded Age Season 1 Episode 8 - Tucked Up in Newport
    8.1/10(1700 votes)

    #8 - Tucked Up in Newport

    S1:E8

    During her first visit to Newport, Bertha follows Mr. McCallister's lead but is soon reminded of her place. Oscar's pursuit of Gladys is threatened by a familiar presence. George gets his day in court. Worried about Armstrong's interference, Peggy reveals her past. Marian makes a decision about her romantic future. Bridget follows Jack across the city.

    Director:Michael Engler
    Writer:Julian Fellowes

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  9. The Gilded Age Season 1 Episode 9 - Let the Tournament Begin
    8.6/10(1568 votes)

    #9 - Let the Tournament Begin

    S1:E9

    As Marian prepares to embark on a new adventure, Ada and Aurora rush to stop her before it's too late. With Gladys' debut ball fast approaching, the clash between Bertha and Mrs. Astor has consequences for all of New York society. The discovery of a shocking letter changes everything for Peggy. Baudin lays out his double life.

    Director:Michael Engler
    Writer:Julian Fellowes

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Season 1 Ratings Summary

"Never the New" is the best rated episode of "The Gilded Age" season 1. It scored 7.8/10 based on 2652 votes. Directed by Michael Engler and written by Julian Fellowes, it aired on 1/24/2022. This episode is rated 0.2 points higher than the second-best, "Money Isn't Everything".