A Quick Recap of ‘The Handmaid’s Tale Ahead of Season 6

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Anticipation has been building as we near the arrival of the last season of ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’, a gripping dystopian series that has captivated us with its chilling portrayal of Gilead, a world where women like June Osborne struggle under oppressive rule. As season 6 begins, this is an opportune time to refresh our memories on the previous events and gear up for the thrilling conclusion.

Gosh, I can’t believe it’s already been two years since we said goodbye to season 5! That nail-biting cliffhanger had us all on edge, pondering what lies ahead for June, Serena, and their fellow characters. This series has been a rollercoaster ride ever since its debut in 2017, and with this being the final lap, the tension is more palpable than ever. As we gear up for the premiere, let’s revisit some pivotal moments and characters that will have you ready to hit play.

Where Season 5 Left Us

Previously, in season 5, June had escaped Gilead and was residing in Canada with her husband Luke and their daughter Nichole. However, freedom didn’t bring tranquility. She continued to be tormented by the daughter she had to leave behind, Hannah, who remained trapped in Gilead, destined for a future that June finds unbearable. The season concluded with June boarding a train westward, fleeing peril once more following an aggressive assault by anti-refugee fanatics in Canada. When their eyes met on the same train, it sent shivers down June’s spine – that was Serena.

Luke’s situation took a grim twist as well. Following the car accident in June, he pursued the perpetrator and inflicted such severe injuries that the man ultimately succumbed to them. This led to Luke being arrested, forcing June and Nichole to flee separately. It’s a heart-wrenching separation for the couple, leaving us questioning whether he can extricate himself from this predicament to rejoin them. The tension between safety and retribution hung heavily in the air, and it seems likely that it will persist throughout the remaining episodes.

In the meantime, signs of weakness were appearing within Gilead. Commander Joseph Lawrence had ambitious ideas for a more modern approach, but not all were supportive. Nick, June’s former lover, took a daring step by attacking Lawrence at a wedding, which led to his imprisonment. To add to his woes, his wife left him, suspecting he still harbors feelings for June. Meanwhile, June and Nichole are on their way to an uncertain future aboard a train, indicating the struggle is far from resolved.

Key Players to Watch

In this narrative, June Osborne, portrayed by Elisabeth Moss, serves as its core character. From a handmaid confined within Gilead, she has transformed into a relentless rebel, ready to go to great lengths for her children’s safety. The fifth season depicted her grappling with adapting to life in Canada, but the final train ride hints that her connection with Gilead remains unbroken. Moss is also directing several episodes in this concluding season, so anticipate a distinct influence from her throughout the finale.

In the role of Serena Joy Waterford, skillfully portrayed by Yvonne Strahovski, is someone worth watching closely. Following her husband Fred’s death at June’s hands, she spent season 5 navigating through power and vulnerability while pregnant. She ultimately gave birth and escaped with her newborn, meeting up with June on the same train. The coincidence of their paths crossing in this manner isn’t accidental – it promises a wave of intense drama. Known for her unpredictable nature, Serena has always been caught between adhering to Gilead’s principles and ensuring her own survival.

Apart from Aunt Lydia, portrayed by Ann Dowd, is a significant character. She’s known for her strict adherence to Gilead’s regulations, but season 5 subtly revealed a more tender side, particularly towards Janine. When the Eyes took Janine away for resisting, Aunt Lydia showed signs of displeasure. This development could be crucial in season 6, given her upcoming role in the spin-off ‘The Testaments’. Her unwavering loyalty has been steadfast, but there’s a possibility it may falter.

What’s Coming in the Final Fight

Starting April 8, 2025, I’m all set to dive back into the thrilling world of “The Handmaid’s Tale,” with three episodes premiering on Hulu, followed by weekly releases until May 27. The word is out that June will once again plunge headfirst into the struggle to finally dismantle Gilead for good. Joining her in this fight are none other than Luke and Moira, which means we’ll get to see more of O-T Fagbenle and Samira Wiley taking center stage. This isn’t just June’s fight anymore; it’s a full-blown rebellion, and I can’t wait to witness the action!

Serena has personal agendas, seeking change within Gilead, while Lawrence and Lydia struggle with the beast they helped birth. Nick is also grappling with difficult decisions, finding himself imprisoned and torn between his emotions for June and his position in Gilead. The main question revolves around whether June can ultimately save Hannah, who remains captive within Gilead’s system. This has been her primary goal since the start, making it difficult to envision the series concluding without this resolution.

This upcoming season seems set for a thrilling ride, as the cast has been describing it as both grand and unpredictable. With Moss referring to it as a heartfelt message to viewers, it gives the impression that they’re sparing no effort in their production. As ‘The Testaments’ spin-off approaches, there may be some loose ends left untied, but they will strive to provide a fitting conclusion to June’s story. Brace yourselves – Gilead is poised for a dramatic collapse, and it won’t go without putting up a fight.

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2025-04-09 13:14