The Russells are fictional but are inspired by the real-life Vanderbilts, who at one point were the wealthiest family in the United States. Many of the other families portrayed in the series are real prominent New York families, and some well-known Gilded Age socialites appear as characters in the series.. George Russell is not based on a Vanderbilt; rather, his character draws from the life of American railroad magnate Jason Gould, according to Gilded Age creator Julian Fellowes.
The Russells in The Gilded Age are inspired by real-life figures, reflecting the opulence and societal dynamics of America's Gilded Age.. The Russells on 'The Gilded Age' are not a real historical family, but they are based on a very wealthy, real family that dominated American life.