The dystopian world of Gilead has kept fans on the edge of their seats since the gripping first season of The Handmaid’s Tale. With season five concluding in November 2022, even dedicated viewers may find it challenging to remember the current narrative intricacies.
As anticipation builds for the upcoming sixth season and a sequel series is on the horizon, interest in The Handmaid’s Tale has surged. The series now feels more politically relevant than ever, and the confirmation of it being the final season promises heightened stakes and resolutions for its main characters, an aspect the show has occasionally struggled to maintain.
June (Elisabeth Moss) has escaped the confines of Gilead to Canada, where she reunites with her husband Luke (O-T Fagbenle), best friend Moira (Samira Wiley), and baby Nichole, whom she managed to safeguard from Gilead.
Back in season three, the narrative unveiled Fred Waterford’s (Joseph Fiennes) arrest in Canada—betrayed by his wife, Serena Waterford (Yvonne Strahovski). In a twist of fate, Fred later betrays Serena, leading to her detention.
Subsequently, season four revealed that despite their tumultuous relationship and the loss of hope for biological children, Fred has mysteriously impregnated Serena.
Although June and her allies are flourishing in Canada, Gilead’s shadow looms large, with the remaining handmaids like Janine (Madeline Brewer) and the relentless Aunt Lydia (Ann Dowd) still facing challenges. The narrative also involves the Commanders and their wives, many of whom remain convinced of their nation-building prowess.
Notably, Nick, now a married Commander, and Commander Lawrence (Bradley Whitford), a pivotal figure in Gilead’s creation, are dissenting voices within this oppressive regime. The diminished United States makes an impactful appearance through Mark Tuello (Sam Jaeger), an agent of the exiled government, who interacts with Serena, June, and Luke.
To prepare for season six, slated to premiere on Hulu on April 8, here are five crucial elements from season five (along with some backstory) to refresh your memory.
Fred Waterford’s Fate
June has permanently shed her identity as “Offred.” The season four finale witnessed Fred Waterford meet a gruesome end at the hands of June and fellow former handmaids. As they gather in celebration, June muses, “Everything tastes better when Fred’s dead!”
Hannah’s Plight in Gilead
The inciting incident of The Handmaid’s Tale revolves around June and Luke’s attempt to flee Gilead with their daughter Hannah. Despite glimpses of Hannah (referred to as “Agnes” in Gilead) throughout the series, June and Luke have yet to rescue her. As Hannah faces the prospect of an early arranged marriage in Gilead, the urgency for her rescue escalates.
Emily’s Departure
Long-time fans lament Emily’s exit from the show in season five. After leaving her family to return to Gilead, her fate remains uncertain. Although it seems unlikely she will return, given Alexis Bledel’s departure announcement, the narrative may still take unexpected turns.
Serena’s New Journey as a Mother
Serena’s long-awaited dream of motherhood comes true with the birth of her son Noah. The journey, however, is fraught with peril, including giving birth in No Man’s Land and dealing with illegal immigration issues. Ultimately, she manages to escape with Noah at the season’s conclusion.
June’s Ongoing Struggles
As anti-refugee sentiments rise and Gilead’s influence expands even into Canada, June’s life grows increasingly perilous. Plans to escape to Hawaii hit a snag when Luke is arrested after a violent confrontation with a Gilead supporter. As captured tensions rise, June and Nichole find themselves on a train—where fate intertwines their journey with Serena and baby Noah.
The Handmaid’s Tale returns to Hulu and Disney+ on April 8 with the release of the first three episodes of season six, followed by a weekly rollout until the series finale on May 27. Additionally, a sequel series titled The Testaments is in active development, though its release date has yet to be confirmed.
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FAQs about The Handmaid’s Tale
When does The Handmaid’s Tale season 6 come out?
Season 6 of The Handmaid’s Tale premieres on April 8, 2023, on Hulu and Disney+.
What can viewers expect in the final season of The Handmaid’s Tale?
The final season is set to bring more focus and resolution to the characters’ journeys, with increased stakes regarding their survival and emotional growth.
Will there be a sequel series to The Handmaid’s Tale?
Yes, a sequel series titled The Testaments is currently in development, although a release date has not yet been announced.
What happened to Fred Waterford in The Handmaid’s Tale?
Fred Waterford met a grim end at the hands of June and other handmaids in the season 4 finale, marking a pivotal moment in the story.
Is Emily returning for the final season of The Handmaid’s Tale?
While Emily’s fate remains uncertain after her departure in season 5, it seems unlikely she will return given Alexis Bledel’s exit announcement.