At its core, The Handmaid’s Tale encapsulates a nation’s struggle for identity, a theme that resonates deeply throughout the series, particularly in its sixth season. While the overarching narrative tackles complex societal and political issues, the series skillfully centers on the personal journey of one woman: June, expertly portrayed by Elise Moss, who is also among the show’s executive producers. June’s relentless pursuit of her children’s safety is further complicated by her diverse relationships, which reveal profound emotional dynamics amid the chaos of Gilead.
The discourse surrounding June’s romantic entanglements, particularly whether she should reunite with her steadfast husband Luke or her Gileadean lover Nick, often overshadows her most intricate connections—those she nurtures with other women. Her enduring friendship with Moira, who has shared both hardship and hope with June, stands in stark contrast to her complex rapport with former mistress Serena Joy, played by Yvonne Strahovski. Initially positioned as antagonists due to Serena’s role in crafting the oppressive regime of Gilead, their relationship has evolved significantly, mirroring an unexpected sense of mutual respect and solidarity as they navigate their precarious existence.
During the premiere screening for season 6 of The Handmaid’s Tale, ScreenRant had the opportunity to engage with Elisabeth Moss about June and Serena’s relationship. We also spoke with cast members including Madeline Brewer, Samira Wiley, Timothy Simons, Jordana Blake, Nina Kiri, and Kristen Gutoskie, who reflected on their favorite moments from the previous five seasons and shared insights regarding the series’ conclusion. Additionally, creator Bruce Miller and executive producer Warren Littlefield provided teasers about how the upcoming adaptation, The Testaments, will continue the legacy of the narrative.
For more in-depth insights, watch the full interviews in the video above, and explore some of the most compelling highlights below:
June & Serena Joy: Intertwined Narratives in Season 6
Elisabeth Moss: A Champion of the Complex Female Dynamic
While Elisabeth Moss remained discreet regarding plot details of the final episodes, she did express her passion for the evolving dynamics between June and Serena Joy. “Their stories are intertwined,”she noted when prompted about their complex relationship. “They continue to follow parallel paths.”
She elaborated on their relationship’s evolution from antagonism to a more nuanced connection. “One embodies light while the other represents darkness, but the lines between them often blur,”she reflected, referencing pivotal moments such as June’s violent confrontation with Commander Waterford and Serena’s struggle for custody over her son. Ultimately, Moss emphasized, “There’s no June without Serena, and there’s no Serena without June.”
Aunt Lydia & Janine: A Changed Dynamic Post-Season 5
Madeline Brewer: The Evolution of Aunt Lydia and Janine’s Bond
ScreenRant: What do you attribute the bond between Aunt Lydia and Janine to, and how might it evolve post-betrayal in Season 5?
Madeline Brewer: That connection stems from a deeply genuine love that exists between Ann [Dowd] and me. We have cultivated a meaningful relationship, built on mutual respect and affection. I believe this sincerity has influenced our characters’ arcs positively. Despite our respective roles, the love lingers. In season 6, that affection will manifest in new and unforeseen ways. I don’t think Aunt Lydia is entirely ready for the transformation in Janine.
ScreenRant: How do you envision Janine’s story concluding, given the impending revolution and the arrival of The Testaments?
Madeline Brewer: Janine’s story will conclude quietly, without any grand farewell. It ends beautifully, showcasing the depth of her character without the need for dramatic fanfare.
Creator Bruce Miller Previews How The Testaments Will Extend the Story
New Perspectives on Gilead in The Testaments
ScreenRant: With The Testaments on the horizon, how are you planning to differentiate it from the previous seasons of The Handmaid’s Tale?
Bruce Miller: June started at Gilead’s lowest tier—barely recognized as a woman. However, her daughter, Agnes Mackenzie, occupies a higher position within the regime. It illustrates that even when positioned at opposite ends, the treatment of women in Gilead is uniformly dismal.
Warren Littlefield: The Testaments picks up four years later, but we wish to conclude The Handmaid’s Tale with a cohesive sense of closure. Nonetheless, Gilead will remain intact, providing us with a fresh narrative perspective.
Focusing on young girls growing up within Gilead’s confines, this new viewpoint promises a distinctive take that diverges notably from The Handmaid’s Tale. The exciting aspect will be the contrast of a seemingly beautiful environment that ultimately pulls back the veil to reveal the harsh realities of life in Gilead.
The initial three episodes of The Handmaid’s Tale season 6 are currently available for streaming on Hulu, with new episodes scheduled for release every Tuesday.
Source: Screen Rant Plus