The highly anticipated sixth and final season of The Handmaid’s Tale is gearing up to return, marking the end of Hulu’s dystopian drama that has captivated audiences worldwide. Here’s a comprehensive look at what’s in store for the series finale.
Production and Release Timeline
Fans have been eagerly awaiting updates, and while no official release date has been announced, production is expected to culminate in a spring 2025 premiere. The scale of this season has resulted in several delays, as shared by Elisabeth Moss, who emphasized the team’s dedication to delivering a fitting conclusion. The ongoing SAG-AFTRA and WGA strikes further postponed filming, which was initially set for August 2023.
First Look and Teasers
A glimpse into the final season was unveiled through Hulu and Disney Plus’s 2025 trailer. The teaser, though brief, packed a punch with Serena Waterford ominously declaring, “Something big is about to happen,” followed by June Osborne’s determined remark, “Let’s bring them home.” Fans also got a sneak peek at returning characters through first-look images, including Aunt Lydia (Ann Dowd), Nick (Max Minghella), and Serena (Yvonne Strahovski).
Plot Expectations
Season 5 left viewers with intense cliffhangers, setting the stage for a gripping finale. The narrative delves deeper into the parallels between Canada and Gilead, showcasing escalating authoritarian measures. The finale saw June and Luke planning their escape from Canada, only for Luke to be arrested after a violent altercation. Meanwhile, June boarded a train with her daughter Nichole, only to discover Serena and her baby onboard as well.
Other unresolved arcs include Hannah’s captivity in Gilead, Commander Lawrence’s vision for New Bethlehem, and Nick’s complex relationship with June. Showrunner Bruce Miller hinted that there won’t be significant time jumps, allowing the story to pick up right where it left off. Miller also teased a romantic arc between Nick and June, promising emotional depth as the series concludes.
Returning Cast
Many fan-favorite actors will reprise their roles for the final chapter:
- Elisabeth Moss as June Osborne
- O-T Fagbenle as Luke
- Max Minghella as Nick
- Yvonne Strahovski as Serena Waterford
- Ann Dowd as Aunt Lydia
- Samira Wiley as Moira
- Amanda Brugel as Rita
- Bradley Whitford as Commander Lawrence
Notable absences include Joseph Fiennes’ Commander Waterford, whose story ended in season 4, and Alexis Bledel’s Emily, who exited ahead of season 5. A new addition to the cast, Timothy Simons, is set to appear in a mysterious guest role.
Is Season 6 the End?
Yes, season 6 will conclude The Handmaid’s Tale. Bruce Miller expressed gratitude for the opportunity to finish the story, citing the enduring relevance of Margaret Atwood’s novel. However, fans can take solace in knowing the story doesn’t end here. Hulu is already developing a spin-off based on Atwood’s sequel, The Testaments. This spin-off will explore the aftermath of Gilead’s regime, with elements potentially hinted at in the upcoming season.
What Lies Ahead?
While the final season promises closure for key characters, Elisabeth Moss suggested the larger narrative of Gilead may remain open-ended, paving the way for The Testaments. This strategy allows the creative team to transition seamlessly into the spin-off without compromising the integrity of the current storyline.
As fans prepare to bid farewell to June, Serena, and the rest of the cast, The Handmaid’s Tale promises a powerful and thought-provoking finale that will leave a lasting impact.
