Ada Forte is making some noticeable changes at the van Rhijn household in Season 4 of The Gilded Age. Now that she has taken a more powerful position in the family, the character is finally making decisions for herself, including changing the curtains and hiring a new footman to replace Jack Trotter, played by Ben Ahlers.

However, Ada’s latest hiring choice has raised some eyebrows. Instead of selecting one of the experienced candidates recommended by longtime butler Bannister, played by Simon Jones, she chooses Oliver, a friendly but rather inexperienced and talkative young man portrayed by Taylor Trensch.

Speaking to DECIDER, Cynthia Nixon explained why Ada was drawn to Oliver, even though his lack of experience could create problems for the household.

Cynthia Nixon Explains Ada’s New Confidence and Independence

According to Nixon, Ada has undergone a major personal change since the beginning of the series.

In the earlier seasons, Ada often had to be careful around her sister and avoid making decisions that could upset her. She spent much of her life being accommodating and putting other people’s opinions ahead of her own.

Nixon explained that Ada was once so concerned about her sister’s disapproval that she nearly gave up being with the love of her life.

Now, however, things are different. With her newfound wealth and authority, Ada is becoming more comfortable trusting her own judgment, even when people with more experience disagree with her.

The actress explained that her character is beginning to enjoy her financial position and influence while experimenting with making both small and major decisions independently.

This new attitude can be seen in her decision to change the household curtains and bring Oliver onto the staff.

Why Ada Believes Oliver Deserves a Chance

Although changing the drapes was an easy victory for Ada, hiring Oliver could have much bigger consequences for the household.

Nixon acknowledged that choosing the inexperienced young man might not have been the smartest decision. However, Ada noticed something about Oliver that made her believe he deserved an opportunity.

Discussing the hiring decision, the actress described Oliver as a “somewhat incompetent” but talkative footman. She explained that Ada saw potential in him despite his current shortcomings.

Nixon added that Ada recognized a version of herself in the young man. She sees someone with plenty of potential who has not yet reached it but could eventually become successful.

That connection appears to be the main reason Ada chooses Oliver over the more qualified candidates. Bannister may question her judgment, but with Ada now in charge, he ultimately has to accept her decision.

Whether Oliver will prove to be a good addition to the van Rhijn, Brook and Forte household remains to be seen.

Who Plays Oliver on ‘The Gilded Age’?

The new footman is played by Taylor Trensch, a talented Broadway performer who joined the HBO drama in its Season 4 premiere.

Trensch has an impressive theater background and is among several Broadway performers in the show’s cast.

In 2025, he received a Tony Award nomination for Best Featured Actor in a Musical for playing Skeets Miller in Floyd Collins.

His other stage credits include productions of Bat Boy, Camelot and Dear Evan Hansen.

Fans can also follow the actor on Instagram at @knucklesandwich.

With Oliver now working inside the van Rhijn household, viewers will have to wait and see whether Ada’s faith in his potential pays off or whether Bannister’s concerns turn out to be justified.