‘The Gilded Age’ Star Cynthia Nixon Explains Why Ada Hired The “Somewhat Incompetent” Oliver as Footman: “She Saw a Version of Herself”

Ada Forte uses her new authority as head of the van Rhijn household to appoint Oliver, a friendly but inexperienced footman, despite her butler’s reservations. Cynthia Nixon says Ada recognises potential in Oliver because she sees a version of herself in him, making the choice a sign of her growing confidence and independence.

Nixon describes Ada as having previously relied on her sister and avoided challenging her, even nearly sacrificing a relationship for her sister’s approval. Now Ada is testing her own judgement, from choosing new curtains to hiring Oliver over more experienced candidates. Oliver is played by Broadway performer Taylor Trensch, who received a Tony nomination for his role in *Floyd Collins*.