Audra McDonald Teases HBO The Gilded Age Season 3

Audra McDonald is counting down the hours to tomorrow’s premiere of The Gilded Age Season 3 on HBO and HBO Max. The six-time Tony Award winner stirred excitement among fans when she reposted a cozy behind-the-scenes snapshot from her co-star Denée Benton, hinting at the camaraderie that fuels the hit period drama.

Mcdonald’s Social Media Tease

On Monday, McDonald shared a candid photo originally posted by Benton (@deneebenton). In her caption, McDonald wrote: “Stole this pic from my sweet Peggy @deneebenton because it makes me so happy to be in a room, on set or even an elevator with these two loves. Can’t wait for you all to see what we get up to in Season 3 @gildedagehbo. Streaming tomorrow!!!!!!” The image shows McDonald grinning alongside Benton and another cast member, all costumed in elegant 1890s attire and framed by an ornate set piece.

Season 3 Premiere Details

Season 3 of The Gilded Age arrives June 16 on HBO and HBO Max, picking up in spring 1893 just after the historic Astor Ball. Created by Downton Abbey’s Julian Fellowes, the series follows two social circles in New York: the established old money families and the newly wealthy industrialists determined to claim their place in high society.

This installment promises fresh conflicts for characters played by Carrie Coon, Christine Baranski, Cynthia Nixon and Morgan Spector. McDonald joins the ensemble in a pivotal recurring role, bringing her trademark musicality to scenes that explore ambition, loyalty and the price of propriety.

Benton returns as Ada Brook’s spirited friend, while McDonald’s character forges unexpected alliances in the grand drawing rooms and gaslit hallways of 19th-century Manhattan. With lush costumes, elaborate sets and a sweeping orchestral score, the show doubles as a feast for the eyes—and McDonald’s sneak peek confirms the cast is as tight-knit behind the camera as they appear on screen.

Mcdonald’s Recent Achievements

Earlier this spring, McDonald made headlines by setting a record at the 2024 Tony Awards. The star claimed her sixth Tony, extending her lead as the performer with the most wins in acting categories. Moments before taking the stage, she shared a glimpse of her pre-ceremony ritual in another Instagram post:

In that series of images, McDonald posed backstage in a custom Christian Siriano gown, thanking her creative team and celebrating an “astonishing season of theater.” Her record-breaking milestone only adds to the buzz around her turn in The Gilded Age.

Beyond awards, McDonald is known for landmark Broadway roles in Carousel, Master Class and Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar & Grill. This week’s behind-the-scenes snapshot highlights her return to television in a project that blends historical detail with modern sensibilities.

Fans eager for more can look for all eight episodes of Season 3 on HBO and HBO Max starting tomorrow at 9 p.m. ET. As McDonald’s social media tease makes clear, there’s plenty of drama—and laughter—waiting in the Gilded world she and her co-stars have made their own.

From record-setting award nights to period-drama premieres, McDonald continues to prove she’s equally at home on Broadway’s grandest stages and HBO’s most opulent sets. Whether she’s in a Tony rehearsal or an on-set elevator, the star’s enthusiasm is contagious—and just one more reason to tune in when The Gilded Age returns.

Trivia

Audra McDonald is known for her powerful soprano voice, which has made her a sought-after performer for both musical theater and operatic roles.

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Poulami Nag

 

Poulami is an associate editor. She did her MA in English from Miranda House, University of Delhi and has qualified UGC-NET. She also holds a PG diploma in Editing and Publishing from Jadavpur University. Her journey as a content writer began in 2017 and since then, Poulami has garnered diverse interests along the way.

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