There’s a new sensation sweeping through the airwaves, and it’s all thanks to HBO’s “The Gilded Age.” With the recent finale of Season 3 leaving audiences on the edge of their seats, it’s clear that one character has emerged victorious in the New York social hierarchy: Jack Trotter.
Played with charm and wit by actor Ben Ahlers, Jack has been a fan favorite since the beginning as a footman with a knack for invention. From creating the world’s first alarm clock to navigating the complexities of high society, Jack has captured the hearts of viewers everywhere. But as the season comes to a close, Jack finds himself at a crossroads, torn between his newfound wealth and his loyalty to his employers, Agnes and Ada.
In a recent interview with Variety, Ben Ahlers delves into Jack’s journey and what lies ahead for the character. From his love for Wawa hoagies to his admiration for Knicks player Jalen Brunson, Ahlers shares insights into Jack’s evolution and the challenges he faces in a world of opulence and extravagance.
One of the most intriguing aspects of Jack’s character is his resistance to the trappings of high society. Despite his newfound fortune, Jack remains grounded in his middle-class roots, finding humor in the absurdities of the upper crust. As he grapples with his new reality, Jack’s story unfolds in unexpected ways, leaving audiences eager to see what the future holds for this inventive young man.
As Ahlers reflects on his own journey from Iowa to the global fashion scene, he finds parallels between his own experiences and Jack’s evolution. From rubbing shoulders with celebrities at fashion week to working on a new movie with John Cena and Eric André, Ahlers is constantly learning and growing in ways he never imagined.
Ultimately, “The Gilded Age” is not just a show about wealth and privilege, but a story of resilience and reinvention. Jack Trotter embodies the American spirit of innovation and ambition, proving that success is not measured by wealth alone. As we eagerly await the next chapter in Jack’s journey, one thing is certain: the best is yet to come for this charming and inventive character. I was completely engrossed in the world of WWE, feeling just as invested as I did when Christine Baranski made a surprise appearance at Cynthia Nixon’s wedding on our show. The experience was truly captivating, and it made me realize the power of storytelling in various forms of entertainment.
Working with Christine Baranski must be a daunting task for anyone. She is undoubtedly one of the best in the industry, with a combination of gratitude, humor, and impeccable talent. Her presence on set is both inspiring and informative, and she effortlessly brings a sense of discipline to her work.
I still remember the first scene I shared with Christine Baranski. We had never met before, and as we crossed paths in the hallway on our way to set, she looked me up and down and jokingly remarked, “Boy, we are getting our money’s worth with you.” It was a moment I will never forget, and it solidified my admiration for her even more.
Finding Jack’s New York accent for our turn-of-the-century setting was a collaborative effort with our dialect coach, Howard Samuelson. He delved into audio recordings from the ’20s and ’30s to help us achieve the perfect tone. Drawing inspiration from classic radio plays and iconic figures like Jimmy Cagney, we were able to capture the essence of the era through our dialects.
The social media fandom surrounding “The Gilded Age” is incredible, and I can’t help but mention the nickname they’ve given me: “Clock Twink.” As a theater kid with a background in musical theater, I feel honored to be embraced by such a passionate community. Being mentioned in the same conversation as “Railroad Daddy” is truly a compliment, and I am grateful for the love and support.
In conclusion, the experience of working on “The Gilded Age” has been nothing short of amazing. From the talented cast to the dedicated crew, every moment on set has been a joy. And as for the nickname “Clock Twink,” I embrace it wholeheartedly. Thank you to everyone who has supported the show and made it a success.
This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.
