A 2010s television monster is about to bow out. In April, MGM and Hulu bid farewell to Gilead, June, Serena Joy, and all the victims and executioners of its dystopian universe. The adaptation of Margaret Atwood's novels hit our screens in 2017, under the OCS banner in our green lands. As on the other side of the Atlantic, the series had no trouble building a solid community of fans, at a time when dystopia remained the preserve of teenagers.
Political, feminist, and above all, fatalistic, Bruce Miller's creation was an important part of the history of the small screen. But after more than fifty episodes, soon to be seventy, it was time to turn the page and devote ourselves to... another work by the Canadian author set in the same universe. Before discovering what the future holds for June Osborn, for this sixth season, let's take a look back at the elements that we absolutely must remember.
The situation in Gilead
Things have changed a lot in Gilead since season 1. The totalitarian, patriarchal, and theocratic regime is beginning to be recognized as a legitimate government on the international stage. Relations with the outside world are more peaceful, while Canada continues to be on the front line. Women and children escaping the country still find refuge there, but the welcome is less warm than before.
The population is divided, between those who want to support the refugees and those who want to cooperate with Gilead. Lawrence, more ambiguous than ever, tries to create a city where the refugees could live under less strict laws. Within its borders, Gilead faces a more complicated situation. Anger is brewing, and the government tries to suppress any acts of rebellion. The commanders are becoming increasingly uncompromising, and life is not a long, quiet river.
June is more vengeful than ever
From Handmaid to war refugee to rebel, June Osborn has come a long way since her first assignment with the Waterfords. Initially presented as a strong personality capable of discreetly manipulating those around her, she has become an important figure in the revolt. The flight of the angels in Season 3 allowed her to become a symbol of hope for those still trapped in Gilead. But this rescue mission also put her in the sights of Serena Joy's supporters, who are growing in number in Canada.
Fred's speech before the International Court had its small effect, the Commander convinced followers by evoking the rising birth rate in Gilead and the return to more traditional morals. June is also the victim of an assassination attempt, shortly after witnessing Hannah's failed rescue mission. This was all it took for the character to do what viewers had been anticipating for some time: return to Gilead to rescue her herself. Emily is already there.
Serena on the run
For her part, Serena Joy must deal with the death of her husband at the end of season 4. She will organize a funeral for Fred and will use this opportunity to become the face of Gilead in Canada. This publicity stunt will allow her to surround herself with loyalists including Ambassador Wheeler and his wife. But she will quickly understand that they want to control her, and especially use her unborn baby. She quickly understands that she is becoming a Handmaid. She will give birth to a son, Noah, and will decide to flee with him to return to Gilead. She finds June in the final scene.
Nick in the Middle
While June has reunited with her husband in Canada, Nick continues to be important to the heroine. In season 5, the now-Commander collaborated with the United States and Mark Tuello to protect and help his daughter's mother. However, he is married and more reluctant to take risks now that his wife is expecting a child. The idea of leaving the country has crossed his mind, but he will not act on it, as he remains loyal (as much as possible) to Gilead. He appears more alone than ever, torn between his values and his love for June. He could be an asset to the US government.
Hannah is still a prisoner
Last point, which is at the epicenter of everything: Hannah. June's child is still her driving force, the reason behind all her decisions. After trying to find her by all means, June resolved to return to Gilead to give her a chance to escape. The last time she was seen, she was at Serena's side at Waterford's funeral. For the former wife of the Commander, this appearance was a way to confront June with the harsh reality of a freedom that is worth little as long as she cannot share it with her child.
The Handmaid's Tale returns on April 8 with three new episodes. They are now broadcast on Canal+, following the acquisition of the channel package by the Vivendi subsidiary. From then on, it will be one episode per week until the conclusion seven weeks later. So this is the final stretch for June.
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