Peggy Scott (played by Denne Benton) finally finds herself in an interesting situation in the latest episode of The Gilded Age. Season 3, Episode 2, titled “What the Papers Say,” introduces Dr. William Kirkland (Jordan Donica), a Black doctor who complicates her life.
While Peggy is unwell in bed, the end of the episode suggests that Dr. Kirkland might not be the best influence on her. Does this mean that the stunning Miss Scott will find happiness, even with her newfound wealth?
**Spoilers: Season 3 Episode 2 of The Gilded Age “What the Paper Says” is streaming on Max**
Last week’s premiere had Peggy catching a nasty cold. Her Aunt Agnes (Kristin Baranski) insists that her physician will care for her, but he turns out to be a prejudiced man who refuses to treat Peggy. Agnes eventually concedes that Peggy should go visit her family, who run a pharmacy in Brooklyn. In the latest episode, Peggy’s parents arrive on 61st Avenue just as Dr. Kirkland does.
Not only does Dr. Kirkland help speed up Peggy’s recovery, but he also sees her as a remarkable person despite her illness.
“It’s a tribute to Peggy’s brilliance and intellect,” Jordan Donica shared. “And those eyes— you can’t miss them. You have to look!”
“Look at them,” Denne Benton echoed, making light of the moment.
“Me?” Donica replied playfully.
Benton added, “You have a way of shining through even in disguise,” which elicited some laughter.
Donica elaborated, “Beyond that initial spark, he falls for her ambitions, her intellect, and her storytelling prowess. It’s her writing that draws him in.”
“He also carries a deep love for his father. He barely knows Peggy, but he automatically shows respect for her family,” he remarked. “I need to explore this more!”
If you’re drawn to Donica’s heartfelt insights, it’s worth remembering that he’s known for his romantic performances on the Broadway stage. He gained recognition in roles like Raul in The Phantom of the Opera and Freddie in My Fair Lady. He even portrayed both Lafayette and Jefferson in the touring company of Hamilton and earned Tony nominations for his portrayal of Lancelot in Camelot. Currently, he stars alongside recent Tony winner Nicole Scherzinger in Sunset Boulevard at St. James Theatre until July 20th.
Throughout the three seasons of The Gilded Age, we’ve witnessed both Peggy and her best friend Marian (Louisa Jacobson) navigate various romantic interests. Will Dr. Kirkland be a lasting presence, or is he just another fleeting fantasy?
“With every layer Kirkland uncovers about Peggy, his admiration will only deepen—emotionally, intellectually, and physically,” Donica hinted.
The Gilded Age returns on Sunday, July 6th at 9pm ET on HBO and Max.
