'The Gilded Age,' Filmed In Newport, Premieres On HBO

NEWPORT, RI — Fans of period dramas, rejoice. The much-antitipated drama "The Gilded Age" premieres on HBO Monday, offering Rhode Islanders a the opportunity to spot some local easter eggs.

While the show takes place in 1880s New York, the series creators took advance of Rhode Island's rich Gilded Age history, filming in several of Newport's iconic historical mansions.

From February to April 2021, the show was filmed across several historic Newport properties, including the Preservation Society of Newport County's The Breakers, Marble House, The Elms, Rosecliff and Chateau-sur-Mer, along with some other privately owned or less-famous properties. Both interior and exterior shots of the iconic mansions were used, and are visible in the show's promo video.

"We have been excited for a long time to see this first season of 'The Gilded Age' come to fruition," said Preservation Society CEO Trudy Coxe. "Our houses are like time capsules where Gilded Age architecture and decor can be seen in all their glory, and the Preservation Society is honored that Lord Fellowes recognized the authenticity these settings lend to his stories."

While the plot and characters are works of fiction, "they are based on the historical reality of the Gilded Age. Nowhere is that reality better preserved than here in Newport," Coxe continued.

The Rhode Island Film and TV Office, along with state and municipal leaders also praised the show, calling it a boon for the local economy.

"Rhode Island is very proud to have hosted the cast and crew of such a high-quality series as 'The Gilded Age,'" Gov. Dan McKee said. "It’s great to see a production that showcases our beautiful Ocean State ... Every time a production shoots here we see a positive impact on our local businesses. This is the type of energy that keeps moving our economy forward."

Julian Fellowes, the series creator and executive producer, said that filming in Newport was "one of the principal joys" of filming the series.

"I had heard of it, of course, but I never went there until now and I found a beautiful seaside town, filled with architectural marvels, and not only that, but the people were as kind and helpful as any filmmaker could wish. I look forward to returning as soon as it can possibly be arranged," Fellowes said.

The show will air Mondays through March 21 on HBO and HBO Max.