Handmaid’s Tale Star Reveals Shocking Truth Behind Controversial Series Finale

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Following an eight-year run on Hulu, “The Handmaid’s Tale” bid its farewell with a heartfelt conclusion, filled with unexpected reunions like Emily’s (portrayed by Alexis Bledel) return, moments where June chose to forgive Serena, and a well-earned joyful ending for Janine. The finale brought together elements of resolution and optimism for what lies ahead.

As a movie reviewer, I must say that the concluding chapter of “The Handmaid’s Tale” on Hulu, which aired on May 27, 2025, seems to serve more as a prelude to its spinoff, “The Testaments,” than it does as a standalone finale. The series, acclaimed for its gripping narrative and exceptional performances, especially Elisabeth Moss as June and O-T Fagbenle as Luke, leaves us with unresolved threads that could be picked up in the sequel. While fans of the award-winning show may feel somewhat dissatisfied, eagerly anticipating closure, they’ll find solace knowing that all six seasons are readily available for streaming on Hulu.

Why Did The Handmaid’s Tale End Like That?

In conversation with Gold Derby, Elisabeth Moss openly discussed her perspective on the series finale, considering her role as an actor and a director. Furthermore, she provided additional insights into the reasoning behind the unique conclusion of The Handmaid’s Tale and why it was wrapped up in that particular manner.

Although many fans might not be thrilled with the conclusion, Moss pointed out that it stayed true to Margaret Atwood’s ambiguous ending in the book.

In simpler terms, “The author intended for ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’ to not provide a neat and tidy ending because real life isn’t like that. The book ends on a cliffhanger, leaving room for more story, just as Margaret Atwood did before writing ‘The Testaments.’ So, we wanted to maintain the same style by not tying up all loose ends.

Despite Moss refraining from revealing any hints about June returning in the The Handmaid’s Tale spinoff (learn more about other characters worthy of their own spinoffs), Testaments, she conveyed her deep affection for the character, going so far as to say that she “would absolutely be up for a season seven of The Handmaid’s Tale.

I express my strong interest in a seventh season of The Handmaid’s Tale, even though it isn’t happening currently. In fact, I adore working on this show, appreciate the narrative, and cherish the characters, including mine and their interactions. Therefore, given my deep connection to the project, I wouldn’t reject the opportunity if it ever arises.

During a discussion, Elisabeth Moss shared thoughts on revisiting the Waterford house, no longer as character June, but as herself. After such a long time away, she acknowledged that her feelings upon returning weren’t as complex as those of June, yet she effortlessly accessed the appropriate emotions for her role, expressing that she “didn’t need to ponder much about how June would react, as I felt it all myself.

Experiencing herself and June simultaneously added a deep level of immersion – something she attributes to over a decade of repeatedly telling the same tale.

It’s been years since I last visited the Waterford house, since June moved in. The last scene we filmed there was… well, I never returned to the house. It’s not like I’d think, ‘Let’s revisit the past and head to this old neighborhood.’ So I had stayed away until recently when I went back, this time for scouting purposes. I knew how it felt to return, and I was able to channel those feelings into the scene. The house holds a lot of great memories, as well as some difficult ones from being cold and working late at night. June’s memories may be more complex, but I can relate.

Moss also touched on how “happy [it was] to be back in a better place” when re-entering that space:

Without a doubt, the sense of optimism and anticipation I felt upon re-entering that room was palpable. I didn’t need to ponder much about June’s feelings, as I shared them myself. A multitude of events had transpired within that room, yet I was elated to return, finding myself in a more favorable position to conclude this narrative. Simultaneously, June was beginning to recount it, and indeed, this format allows for effortless expression – which is why I find it so captivating.

Elisabeth then revealed that the voice heard at the end of the series was the original audio:

I thought if I presented it correctly, with the right rhythm and in a familiar manner, we might be able to utilize the initial voiceover by speaking myself. However, it slipped my mind until just ten minutes prior – almost as if we were preparing the setup for the shot at that very moment.

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2025-05-30 16:34