Denée Benton, best known for her role as Peggy in HBO’s “The Gilded Age,” is preparing for the upcoming fourth season of the series, which is scheduled to premiere on November 1. Benton, 34, described her character’s evolving arc as one where Peggy “gets to have it all,” highlighting the character’s journey as an ambitious journalist from an affluent Black family in 19th-century Brooklyn. The third season concluded with Peggy accepting a marriage proposal, setting the stage for further development in the new season.
In addition to her television work, Benton is currently appearing on Broadway in the production of “School Girls; or, The African Mean Girls Play,” where she plays Paulina, the lead figure among a group of teenagers anticipating the arrival of a Miss Ghana pageant recruiter. The show began performances recently, adding to Benton’s busy schedule.
During a recent conversation from the set in Queens, Benton shared a glimpse into her personal interests and daily routines. Among her favorite spots is Dashi Okume, a restaurant in Greenpoint known for its Japanese cuisine. She described a ritual of starting her day with the restaurant’s dashi broth and miso-glazed mackerel, and she often purchases Japanese kitchen ingredients and utensils, despite not being an active cook.
Benton expressed admiration for artist Lauren Halsey, whose work blends Egyptian Sphinx motifs with contemporary street art to encapsulate the history of Black art in a single sculpture. Reflecting on her own space, Benton talked about her seven houseplants, singling out a tropical tree named Peach that she has moved between apartments, underscoring the personal attachment she has to them.
Musically, Benton cited Steve Lacy’s album “Oh Yeah?” as a favored soundtrack for introspective walks, praising the artist’s poetic and playful lyrics that navigate themes of complexity and heartbreak. She also mentioned the relaxation benefits of Diptyque bath oil, which she uses to soothe her body after performances, seeking a treatment that feels indulgent rather than utilitarian.
Benton’s appreciation for film includes the work of Alfonso Cuarón, recalling childhood memories of “A Little Princess” and discovering “Y Tu Mamá También” during her time studying abroad in Spain. She also discussed the emotional connection to writer Zora Neale Hurston, noting the proximity of her childhood church in Eatonville, Florida, to Hurston’s historic home and characterizing Hurston as a radical and vibrant artist ahead of her time.
On a lighter note, Benton revealed a personal anecdote about her introduction to nude beaching while studying in Spain, encouraged by a hosted family member to embrace a less restrained approach to sunbathing. She also detailed a playful side in opting for comfort on set, sharing that she often wears Birkenstock sandals in lieu of heels during filming whenever possible, hoping the choice remains unnoticed.
These insights paint a multi-dimensional picture of Benton’s life off-screen, balancing her artistic career with personal passions and a distinct sense of identity.