Donna Murphy Unveils ‘The Gilded Age’ Season 2 Secrets and Reflects on a Live-Action ‘Tangled’ Return as Mother Gothel

Broadway luminary and screen star Donna Murphy recently offered an exhilarating update regarding the highly anticipated second season of HBO’s period drama, The Gilded Age. In an exclusive interview conducted prior to the recent SAG strike, Murphy shared intriguing details about the upcoming season and even weighed in on the possibility of reprising her iconic role as Mother Gothel in a potential live-action adaptation of Disney’s Tangled. Her insights provide a tantalizing glimpse into both the opulent world of Julian Fellowes’ series and the future of her diverse career.

Fans worldwide are eagerly awaiting the return of The Gilded Age, and Donna Murphy, who portrays the formidable social arbiter Caroline Astor, is just as enthusiastic about its sophomore season. Speaking exclusively with HollywoodLife at a screening for The Miracle Club, Murphy expressed her excitement about the continued evolution of the series. Her involvement brings a unique blend of theatrical gravitas and on-screen charm to the already star-studded ensemble, making her a crucial voice in understanding the show’s development.

Delving into the production process of The Gilded Age season two, Murphy hinted at a dynamic and evolving creative environment. “There was a lot of writing that was happening as we were filming the second season, so there was a lot that was surprising us as we were going through filming,” Donna revealed. This suggests that even the cast members were kept on their toes, promising unexpected twists and turns for viewers. While bound by strict non-disclosure agreements – “they always tell us we’re not allowed to say a damn thing, which is so boring” – she did share a delightful detail: “But of course, I got to have some wonderful scenes with Miss Carrie Coon.” This interaction between two formidable actresses, Murphy’s Caroline Astor and Coon’s Bertha Russell, is undoubtedly a highlight many fans will be eager to witness, given the inherent power struggle between their characters in the series’ narrative.

While an official premiere date for The Gilded Age season 2 has yet to be announced by HBO, Donna Murphy herself believes the series will grace our screens in September 2023. This potential fall release would perfectly position the show for awards season consideration and offer a grand return to the opulence and social machinations of 1880s New York City. The first season was critically acclaimed for its rich historical detail, exquisite costumes, and, notably, its impressive roster of Broadway talent. Alongside Murphy, stars like Audra McDonald, Kelli O’Hara, Cynthia Nixon, and Christine Baranski infused the drama with unparalleled stage presence and acting prowess, a characteristic that defines Julian Fellowes’ productions.

Given the show’s penchant for integrating luminaries from the theater world, HollywoodLife asked Murphy which other stage mega-stars she would love to see join the cast of this captivating period drama. Without hesitation, she offered two compelling suggestions, both of whom would undoubtedly elevate the already stellar ensemble. “Victor Garber. I’d like for him to be revealed as Mr. Astor. I think Bernadette Peters has to find her way into the show,” Donna enthusiastically shared. The idea of Victor Garber, a celebrated veteran of both stage and screen, portraying the elusive Mr. Astor is particularly intriguing, as it could add a fascinating dynamic to Caroline Astor’s character and her societal standing. Similarly, Bernadette Peters, with her unparalleled comedic timing and dramatic depth, would be a perfect fit for the vibrant and often rigid social circles depicted in the series, perhaps as a new rival or an eccentric relative, further enriching the show’s intricate tapestry of characters.

Reflecting on her experience filming the series, the 5-time Tony nominee described The Gilded Age as a “deliciously fun experience,” despite the inherent challenges of bringing the 19th century to life. She painted a vivid picture of the demanding environment: “I mean, it’s a long workday when you’re in the constrictions of that time period and wigs and wool and it’s 105 degrees in Troy, New York, and you’re acting as if it’s springtime, and you’re accustomed to wearing these corsets and such.” The commitment required from actors to embody characters from such a distinct era, enduring period-accurate attire in challenging weather conditions, highlights their dedication. Yet, Murphy quickly added that these discomforts are “a small price to pay to do something that’s such really magical storytelling.” This sentiment underscores the profound artistic satisfaction derived from contributing to a production of such grandeur and narrative depth, a common thread among actors passionate about their craft and period pieces.

Beyond the drawing rooms of New York society, the conversation shifted to another iconic role in Murphy’s repertoire: Mother Gothel from Disney’s animated hit, Tangled. In an era where Disney has been heavily invested in live-action adaptations of their beloved animated classics, the question of a Tangledlive-action movie inevitably arises, often accompanied by fan speculation about who could portray its memorable characters. Given Murphy’s acclaimed vocal performance and dramatic interpretation of the manipulative villain, it was natural to inquire if she would be interested in reprising the role in a live-action format.

Murphy’s response was thoughtful and nuanced: “Never say never,” the actress admitted, leaving the door open to the possibility. She clarified that it wasn’t a role she initially considered a must-do for a live-action iteration, stating, “It’s not something that when I initially heard about it I thought, ‘They better ask.’” Her decision-making process for professional engagements is deeply intertwined with her personal life and responsibilities. As a single mother since the passing of her late husband, her career choices are significantly influenced by her ability to balance work with parenting. “My choices about what I do work-wise have been very much connected to my parenting because I’m a single mom since my late husband passed away. My choices have to do with how I can be present both in my work and for my daughter,” she explained. This heartfelt consideration underscores the practical realities that shape an artist’s career, prioritizing family while still pursuing fulfilling creative endeavors.

Furthermore, Murphy expressed a consistent desire for new challenges and diverse roles. “So you just never know and also, it’s like, what did I do last? I don’t want to do whatever I did last. I want to do something new and something that’s going to stretch me,” she elaborated. This artistic philosophy speaks to her versatility as an actress, always seeking opportunities to grow and explore different facets of her craft. While she excelled at portraying the complex character of Mother Gothel, a role that demanded both singing prowess and dramatic intensity, she approaches future roles with an open mind and a yearning for fresh experiences. “I mean, I played Mother Gothel, but who the hell knows,” she concluded, leaving fans to ponder the exciting prospect of her potential return while also celebrating her commitment to artistic evolution. Whether it’s guiding the social elite of The Gilded Age or potentially captivating a new generation as a live-action villain, Donna Murphy continues to embody the essence of a truly transformative performer.

As The Gilded Age season 2 approaches, promising more societal drama and magnificent performances, and with the persistent buzz around Disney’s live-action adaptations, Donna Murphy remains a captivating figure in both television and film. Her insights offer fans a richer understanding of the world behind the scenes and the thoughtful considerations that shape an acclaimed artist’s journey. With her enduring talent and dedication to her craft, Murphy continues to be a performer to watch, capable of bringing depth and nuance to every character she portrays, leaving audiences eagerly anticipating her next move.