Plot Synopsis

Based on the Margaret Atwood's novel of the same name, THE HANDMAID'S TALE is a one-hour drama series that tells the story of life in the dystopia of Gilead, a totalitarian society in what was formerly the United States. Facing environmental disasters and a plunging birthrate, Gilead is ruled by a twisted fundamentalism in its militarized "return to traditional values." As one of the few remaining fertile women, Offred is a Handmaid in the Commander's household, one of the caste of women forced into sexual servitude as a last desperate attempt to repopulate the world. In this terrifying society, Offred must navigate between Commanders, their cruel Wives, domestic Marthas, and her fellow Handmaids -- where anyone could be a spy for Gilead -- all with one goal: to survive and find the daughter that was taken from her. Just after the story begins, Offred and her fellow Handmaids assist with the delivery of Janine's baby, prompting Offred to recall her own daughter's birth. Offred draws closer to Ofglen while dreading a secret meeting with the Commander. Then, Offred visits Janine's baby with Serena Joy and remembers the early days of the revolution before Gilead. Ofglen faces a difficult challenge. On Wednesday, April 26, 2017 at 3:01am ET/12:01am PT, Hulu released the first three episodes of the series.

Season 2 of THE HANDMAID'S TALE premiered in April 25, 2018 at 3:01am ET/12:01am PT, as Hulu released the first two episodes of the new season, which is shaped by Offred's pregnancy and her ongoing fight to free her future child from the dystopian horrors of Gilead. "Gilead is within you" is a favorite saying of Aunt Lydia. In the second season, Offred and all the characters fight against -- or succumb to -- this dark truth. In the season opener, "June," Offred reckons with the consequences of a dangerous decision while haunted by memories from her past and the violent beginnings of Gilead. Then, in the second episode, "Unwomen," Offred adjusts to a new way of life. The arrival of an unexpected person disrupts the Colonies. A family is torn apart by the rise of Gilead.

The 13-episode third season of THE HANDMAID'S TALE premieres on Wednesday, June 5, 2019 at 3:01am ET/12:01am PT, with Hulu released the first three episodes of Season 3. The new season is driven by June's resistance to the dystopian regime of Gilead and her struggle to strike back against overwhelming odds. Startling reunions, betrayals, and a journey to the terrifying heart of Gilead force all characters to take a stand, guided by one defiant prayer: "Blessed be the fight."

THE HANDMAID'S TALE returned for its 10-episode fourth season on Wednesday, April 28, 2021, as Hulu released the first three episodes of the new season. A new episode debuts each Wednesday thereafter. In Season 4, June strikes back against Gilead as a fierce rebel leader, but the risks she takes bring unexpected and dangerous new challenges. Her quest for justice and revenge threatens to consume her and destroy her most cherished relationships. In the season opener, "Pigs," June and the fugitive Handmaids seek refuge while on the run. In Gilead, Aunt Lydia reels from the loss of 86 children on Angels' Flight. The combative Waterfords, in custody in Toronto, learn of June's feat.

Season 5 of THE HANDMAID'S TALE premiered on Wednesday, September 14, 2022, as Hulu released the first two episodes of the new season. June faces consequences for killing Commander Waterford while struggling to redefine her identity and purpose. The widowed Serena attempts to raise her profile in Toronto as Gilead's influence creeps into Canada. Commander Lawrence works with Nick and Aunt Lydia as he tries to reform Gilead and rise in power. June, Luke and Moira fight Gilead from a distance as they continue their mission to save and reunite with Hannah.
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On Wednesday, November 9, 2022, Hulu released "Safe," the Season 5 finale of THE HANDMAID'S TALE. Under threat, June must find a way to keep herself and her family safe from Gilead and its violent supporters in Toronto.

Hulu announced that it renewed THE HANDMAID'S TALE for sixth and final season on Thursday, September 8 -- six days before Season 5 debuted.