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WARNING: The following story contains spoilers for the first six episodes of The Handmaid’s Tale’s sixth and final season, streaming now on Hulu.
In her portrayal of Serena in The Handmaid’s Tale, actress Yvonne Strahovski has consistently expressed her conflicted feelings about the character. Strahovski finds herself in a constant struggle to comprehend and even rationalize Serena’s controversial actions, while simultaneously feeling a sense of discomfort in doing so. This internal conflict has certainly enriched her portrayal in the show’s final season, as Serena grapples with her own tumultuous journey.
The sixth season opens with Serena facing a precarious situation, having narrowly escaped a mob while fleeing to Canada. With her child in tow, she finds temporary shelter within a religious commune, where her identity is concealed. However, the community’s environment presents its own set of emotional challenges, mirroring the oppressive dynamics she faced as a wife in Gilead. When presented with an opportunity by Commander Lawrence (Bradley Whitford) to reclaim a leadership role, she eagerly accepts, aspiring for change yet ultimately agreeing to marry Commander Wharton (Josh Charles).
Strahovski reflects on her character’s complexities, admitting, “The faith aspect has always been the least interesting part of her character.” She articulates that this season marks a significant turning point for Serena, who is compelled to navigate her role as a leader devoid of an established belief system, focusing instead on the political implications of her actions.
Although Serena faces challenges to her faith, particularly highlighted through flashbacks to her father who instilled a strong religious connection in her, Strahovski suggests that her evolution can be traced to guilt stemming from questioning these beliefs. This struggle becomes more complicated as her relationship with June (Elisabeth Moss) develops. Their past as handmaid and mistress has rendered their dynamic deeply intricate, culminating in a moment of vulnerability when June saves Serena from an angry crowd.
In a pivotal episode titled “Surprise,” Serena extends a hand to June, a gesture Strahovski describes as “self-serving,” yet nonetheless highlights Serena’s growth and internal conflict. “This season sees Serena drop her façade,” Strahovski notes, emphasizing the journeys of self-acceptance that accompany her newfound openness with June.
In their exchanges, the two women engage in candid conversations devoid of subterfuge, marking a significant progression in their relationship. Strahovski intentionally allowed Serena to be vulnerable, which led to profound truths being exchanged, revealing the mutual desire for acceptance and forgiveness.
Strahovski elucidates that forgiveness is central to Serena’s character arc, noting that her fundamental yearning has evolved from wanting a child to seeking absolution from June. She articulates, “Despite the destructive choices she’s made, Serena needs validation to prove she is still a good person at heart, making her desires almost delusional.”
While June remains unyielding in her inability to forgive Serena, the narrative thickens when Wharton informs her of an impending attack on Jezebel’s, prompting complex moral dilemmas for Serena. Strahovski elaborates, “In this moment, Serena’s original beliefs resurface, leading her to tacitly support Wharton’s actions against Jezebel’s, revealing the conflicting layers of her character.”
Despite her tumultuous feelings, Strahovski assures that Serena’s upcoming marriage to Wharton will be a momentous event, fraught with tension and significance. “The real question is, ‘Where will Serena ultimately stand?’ The narrative is intricately woven, and it is far from a straightforward conclusion,” she contends.
Strahovski emphasizes the show’s ability to intricately connect its characters, delivering a profound narrative that encompasses their emotional journeys. It raises anticipation for the unfolding events as the series approaches its conclusion.
The final season of The Handmaid’s Tale streams new episodes every Tuesday on Hulu.
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