Julian Fellowes, the acclaimed creator of the hit series 'The Gilded Age,' delved into the world of dueling opera houses in the show's second season. The narrative tension between the old-money-backed Academy of Music and the new-money Metropolitan Opera served as a symbolic representation of the clash between tradition and progress during the Gilded Age.
Fellowes, known for his Emmy-winning work on 'Downton Abbey,' saw the opera wars as a reflection of the changing times in American society. The influx of new wealth represented by figures like the Vanderbilts and Rockefellers signaled the dawn of the American Century, where old establishments were challenged by up-and-coming juggernauts.
Despite the opulence of the show, Fellowes revealed that he doesn't get involved in budgeting details, preferring to focus on the creative aspects of storytelling. He emphasized the importance of capturing grand moments like balls and battles in the initial drafts, leaving the logistics to be sorted out later.
Looking ahead to season three, Fellowes teased a deeper exploration of the business world during the Gilded Age, highlighting the unregulated nature of industries and the larger-than-life personalities driving them. He expressed a fascination with the era's lack of sentimentality, contrasting it with modern sensibilities.
As 'The Gilded Age' continues its production, viewers can expect a mix of lavish settings, intricate character dynamics, and historical intrigue that capture the essence of a transformative period in American history.
