Warning: This article contains spoilers for The Handmaid’s Tale season 6, episode 3!
The much-anticipated fate of Janine following the events of The Handmaid’s Tale season 5 has been unveiled, shedding light on her current situation and potential future developments. As one of the most compelling characters in the series, Janine’s journey demonstrates her resilience within the oppressive regime of Gilead, especially after June’s escape. Her defiance against Aunt Lydia and the totalitarian Gileadean system underscores her position as a formidable character. Though her fighting spirit appeared to lead to a grim end in season 5, season 6 has revealed that Janine is, in fact, alive and facing new challenges.
The premiere of season 6, which debuted with the first three episodes, marks the conclusion of the critically acclaimed Hulu series. While the spinoff titled The Testaments is being developed, season 6 has the significant task of resolving key story arcs from the original show. Given this, it’s unsurprising that Janine’s fate emerged early in the new season, especially as her dynamic with Aunt Lydia is central to the plot.
Where Janine Stands in The Handmaid’s Tale Season 6
Her Journey to Jezebel’s
During season 5, Janine displayed remarkable defiance, ultimately being assigned as a Handmaid in Commander Lawrence’s household. However, her stay was brief; an altercation with Naomi Putnam resulted in her removal back to the Red Center. When Janine refused to apologize at Aunt Lydia’s urging, Commander Lawrence ordered the Eyes to take her away—leading to her presumed fate of either being sent to the Colonies or facing execution.
Transitioning to season 6, Aunt Lydia receives news that compels her to visit Jezebel’s, the infamous Gilead brothel known for obscuring the lives of women deemed expendable. To her surprise, Janine is now working there, having navigated the turbulent circumstances that followed her removal.
Notably, Aunt Lydia is shocked to discover that Janine, along with other former Handmaids who have borne children, landed in Jezebel’s—a place that was not supposed to be a reward for them. While the details of how Janine reached this unorthodox situation are unclear, it can be speculated that Commander Lawrence, who has shown an affinity for her, may have facilitated her transition to Jezebel’s as a covert sanctuary away from Gilead’s watchful eyes.
Why Janine Urges Aunt Lydia to Move On
The Detrimental Impact of Aunt Lydia
When Lydia encounters Janine, her instinct is to offer assistance. However, Janine firmly declines, insisting that Aunt Lydia forget her. This response underscores Janine’s belief that interactions with Aunt Lydia typically worsen her situation. She likely perceives her current state at Jezebel’s as a preferable alternative to Gilead’s more punitive environments, preferring to maintain a low profile.
Additionally, Janine’s insistence on silence may relate to Commander Lawrence’s potential influence. If he was instrumental in sending her to Jezebel’s discreetly, Janine may fear that Aunt Lydia’s involvement could jeopardize her newfound sanctuary. This adds weight to her stark proclamation that Lydia’s interference invariably complicates matters.
Is There a Possibility for Janine to Escape Gilead?
Is Jezebel’s a Permanent Prison?
Janine’s current placement at Jezebel’s casts a shadow over her ability to escape Gilead. Given her notoriety among the patrons at the establishment, any disappearance would likely be noticed. Nevertheless, characters like Moira have shown that escape from Jezebel’s is achievable. With the potential assistance of Aunt Lydia and Commander Lawrence, Janine might find a pathway to freedom. After enduring numerous trials and lingering in Gilead for so long, season 6 represents Janine’s final opportunity to reclaim her freedom.