“Brutal” Scene from Handmaid’s Tale Cut After Actress Declined to Film

As we approach the much-anticipated premiere of The Handmaid’s Tale Season 6, it’s the perfect moment to revisit some of the series’ most shocking scenes. Among them is a particularly harrowing segment that was ultimately scrapped after the lead actor objected to its inclusion.

This upcoming season marks the culmination of Gilead’s intense narrative, as Season 6 is set to be the final installment. The newly released trailer suggests that June will return to the dystopian regime, spearheading a revolutionary movement aimed at dismantling the oppressive structures that define their society.

There are numerous plot lines to explore, including Nick’s ascendance to power and Serena Joy’s escape from the Wheelers, alongside various cliffhangers that will pave the way for the anticipated spinoff, The Testaments.

The Handmaid’s Tale has consistently confronted the brutal realities of life under Gilead, pushing the boundaries of television storytelling. However, not every intended scene made it to the screen.Content Warning: Some details may be distressing for viewers.

Joseph Fiennes Refused to Film a “Brutal”Scene

Serena and Fred give a speech with June in the background in The Handmaid's Tale — Hulu

Commander Fred Waterford, portrayed by Joseph Fiennes, committed numerous heinous acts before his demise in Season 4, yet a critical on-screen act of violence against his wife, Serena Joy, did not occur. Initially, there was a plan to depict this act during a visit to Washington in Season 2, but Fiennes’ strong objections led the creators to abandon the scene.

In an interview with The Guardian, Fiennes expressed his belief that “Yvonne [Strahovski, who portrays Serena] had crafted a beautifully nuanced arc, ”arguing that a brutal depiction of rape was unnecessary for Serena to express her hatred and resistance.

Fiennes commented that incorporating such a violent scene would simply serve to amplify misogyny—a message that was already evident in the narrative.“It felt gratuitous. The themes of oppression were already clear without needing that level of graphic illustration, ” he added.

While Fred Waterford is no longer part of the story, his legacy continues through the character of Noah, whom Serena abducts in Season 5, leading to a climactic reunion with June. As shown in the Season 6 trailer, Serena appears to have rejoined the ranks of Gilead, seemingly residing in New Bethlehem, the so-called “liberalized island”proposed by Commander Joseph Lawrence.

Serena’s new relationship, featuring her latest commander portrayed by The Good Wife star Josh Charles, and the fate of both her and Noah remain unclear. What is evident is that her past ties to Gilead—and to Fred—will profoundly influence their futures.

The highly awaited The Handmaid’s Tale Season 6 is set to premiere on Hulu on April 8, 2025.

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