The Gilded Age Season 3: A Nod to Drag Culture

The Gilded Age, HBO’s celebrated historical drama, has more in common with drag culture than one might initially realize. While the show is widely recognized for its lavish display of ballgowns, elaborate headwear, and glittering tiaras, it also subtly nods to the art of drag—a form of entertainment that thrived during the actual Gilded Age.

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, female impersonation was a prominent, though often overlooked, aspect of popular culture. This period, known for its opulence and innovation, saw drag performances as part of the vibrant nightlife scene, particularly in cosmopolitan cities like New York.

It seems only fitting, then, that The Gilded Age should pay homage to this historical art form. In a recent episode of the third season, viewers are treated to a brief but significant drag cameo. Although subtle, this moment marks an important step towards representing queer history in modern media.

Episode Highlights: A Moment in Time

In season three, episode five, which aired just last week, we follow characters Jack (portrayed by Ben Ahlers) and Larry (played by Harry Richardson) as they venture into the Haymarket, a renowned dance hall infamous for its decadent and scandalous atmosphere. Located in New York during the 1800s, the Haymarket was akin to a local version of the Moulin Rouge in Paris, a hot spot for risqué entertainment until its closure in 1911.

While the characters soak in the vibrant atmosphere, a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it moment occurs in the background. A male figure, elegantly attired in a ladies' evening gown, complete with a moustache, makes a fleeting appearance. This cameo is none other than Matthew Carlsen, the costume coordinator for the series, who stepped from behind the camera for this special scene.

A Behind-the-Scenes Glimpse

Matthew Carlsen took to social media to share his excitement about being part of the scene. "If you look closely, you’ll just catch me, but blink and I’m gone baby," Carlsen wrote on Instagram, accompanied by photos of himself in costume. He expressed how it was a "cool experience" to participate as a background actor among a vignette of female impersonators in the show.

Carlsen also revealed that the original plan was to feature several female impersonators in the scene, though many were cut in the final edit. Speaking about the significance of this inclusion, Carlsen, a historical fashion enthusiast, praised the show's effort to bring this under-represented art form to the screen.

"As a huge admirer of female impersonator Julian Eltinge, I was thrilled to see the production team’s commitment to showcasing this vital part of queer history," Carlsen said. Julian Eltinge was a famed actor of the era, renowned for his female roles in vaudeville and on Broadway, before transitioning to silent films and Hollywood.

The Importance of Representation

Matthew Carlsen emphasized the importance of portraying such characters seriously in historical narratives. "I was even more excited when I was asked to portray one of these figures, as it’s quite rare for this kind of character to be featured in historical storytelling in any serious, non-comedic manner," Carlsen continued.

The inclusion of drag culture in The Gilded Age is a testament to the growing awareness and appreciation for queer history in modern media. "I think it is incredibly important that queer history be represented in modern media, especially historical retellings," Carlsen concluded.

As The Gilded Age continues to air its third season, the series not only entertains but also educates, shedding light on the multifaceted history of the era it portrays. The show encourages viewers to reflect on the rich tapestry of cultural influences that shaped the past and continue to resonate today.

The Gilded Age airs on HBO, with new episodes available every Sunday. Join the discussion and share your thoughts on this intriguing nod to drag culture in historical storytelling. Let’s keep the conversation respectful and enlightening.