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As the final episode of The Handmaid’s Tale‘s sixth season approaches, the tragic love story between June and Nick has reached its end. However, their destiny was set much earlier, even before the dramatic events of episode 9. The Hulu series brings Margaret Atwood’s timely dystopian novel to life, where a theocratic government takes over America, forcing fertile women into servitude as child-bearers. The Handmaid’s Tale chronicles the journey of June Osborne, a woman who initially sought escape from this regime but was ultimately assigned as a Handmaid. Her encounter with Nick Blaine (Max Minghella) occurs during her time under Gilead’s oppressive rule.

In the gripping world of ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’, I found myself critically examining the complex dynamics between Nick (Joseph Fiennes) and June, a former driver and commander, respectively. Initially, a clandestine romance blossomed between them, but as the series unfolded, it was clear that their destiny was to part ways. As Nick ascended through Gilead’s ranks and June deepened her resistance efforts, their paths diverged irreversibly. Loyal to the oppressive regime, Nick ultimately faced the consequences when a bomb onboard their plane claimed the lives of several commanders, including himself, in a fiery demise.

A June & Nick Happy Ending Wouldn’t Have Fit The Handmaid’s Tale

Their Histories Would Make Any Hope Of A Typical Happy Ending Feel Jarring

The realm portrayed in “The Handmaid’s Tale” is characterized by a chilling, disturbing form of oppressive rule, as the society of Gilead systematically takes away any semblance of power from women, regardless of their roles as Handmaids, Aunts, or even those close to its leadership. Consequently, the idea of the series concluding with June and Nick in a peaceful, issue-free relationship was never an option. Given that June has been a victim of this system and because Nick has flourished under the regime, and in fact, contributed to its establishment.

In other words, not addressing the crucial developments in “The Handmaid’s Tale” after everything June and Nick have been through would be out of step with the message of the story. Since June has sacrificed so much for her cause, it wouldn’t be fair to her character if they didn’t discuss Nick’s role in Gilead’s past. Moreover, while Nick initially seemed less harsh, his final journey makes it clear that he can never completely escape his connection to Gilead’s dark past.

Nick Was Never A Truly Good Person

Nick May Have Been Good To June, But His Views On The World Depended On How He Could Benefit

In contrast to his portrayal in Margaret Atwood’s novel “The Handmaid’s Tale,” Nick is depicted as a character with intricate layers. Initially, he appears to be simply a minor component within the system of Gilead, fulfilling the role of a driver. However, it transpires that Nick was among the first members of the Sons of Jacob before they seized power and established the new regime in America. This revelation underscores his significant influence, as he played a key role in enacting the laws that subjected June and countless other women to unimaginable suffering.

As Nick strives to make amends for his past mistakes by assisting June and the Mayday resistance movement, it’s clear that there are boundaries to his actions against Gilead. With Commander Lawrence (Bradley Whitford) and Nick both being careful to maintain their positions within Gilead leadership, Nick may adjust his loyalties based on the situation and what’s best for him, and June, given their connection. In contrast, Commander Lawrence is determined to rectify his errors, even going so far as to promise to remain in Gilead to fix the mess he’s created.

In season 6 of The Handmaid’s Tale, Nick makes a decisive move by sharing rebel strategies with his father-in-law to save June, an action that results in the demise of several Jezebels. This choice ultimately fractures their relationship. Unlike earlier instances when he attempted to make amends for his actions, Nick no longer feels compelled to do so now because it doesn’t serve his purpose anymore. Instead, he re-joins the other commanders on the plane. As the aircraft ascends, Nick asserts that he had chosen the “winning side,” revealing a underlying trait where he would align himself with those who could offer him something, rather than adhering to what is morally correct, hinting at his unchanged self-interest beneath any potential growth.

Nick Always Seemed Likely To Die In Gilead

No Man Can Walk Away From Gilead Unimpacted

Regardless of whether Nick had endeavored to make amends for all his past errors, one could contend that his destiny was already predetermined the moment he established Gilead. Had Nick opted to defend those dear to him, there’s a chance he would have given everything in a heroic act of self-sacrifice against the regime. Since Nick played a role in bringing about Gilead for personal gain, losing his life in an attempt to dismantle it could serve as undeniable proof that Nick had truly transformed.

If Nick were alive, whether as a Commander maintaining the regime or a rebel overthrowing it, it’s still doubtful that he and June would have found a fairytale ending. Regardless of her acknowledgment of his change, the crimes Nick committed for the regime can’t be erased, and any incoming administration would likely prosecute him for his role. Lawrence understood that such consequences were inevitable for Nick, even if he escaped with the evacuated children. Consequently, Nick sealed his fate the moment he became a Son.

June & Nick’s Romance Was Still One Of The Best Parts Of The Handmaid’s Tale

For A Time, Their Bond Was A Beacon Of Hope In A Very Dark World

Despite the fact that their relationship didn’t culminate in a joyful conclusion, June and Nick’s bond significantly impacted “The Handmaid’s Tale”. Even as the series moved beyond the original novel’s events, their relationship served as a beacon of hope amidst an oppressive and disheartening environment for both characters and viewers. For June, she discovered a companion who appeared determined to undermine those who inflicted her suffering during her darkest hours before her escape. At the same time, it seemed that Nick was being guided towards redemption by her.

In various aspects, the relationship between June and Nick in this adaptation surpasses their portrayal in the original work. Rather than just having a fleeting affair, they develop a deep, heartfelt romance that transcends the boundaries of love. Although Nick can be self-centered, he consistently makes choices that he believes are advantageous for both him and June when they’re together. The chemistry between Elisabeth Moss and Oliver Minghella brings an emotional depth to their storyline, making it one of the most impactful aspects of The Handmaid’s Tale, particularly following the finale episode’s airing.

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2025-05-23 06:21