Elisabeth Moss, a name synonymous with raw, powerful performances, has been making headlines as The Handmaid’s Tale wrapped its sixth and final season on Hulu this week, May 27, 2025. The 42-year-old actress, who not only starred as June Osborne but also directed the series finale, shared emotional insights about closing this chapter of her career. In recent interviews, Moss described the surreal experience of ending an eight-year journey that transformed her into a household name and an Emmy winner. Fans are buzzing about her reflections on June’s arc and how the show’s conclusion sets the stage for Hulu’s upcoming spinoff, The Testaments. Let’s dive into the latest on Elisabeth Moss and her unforgettable role in this dystopian saga.
The Emotional Weight of June Osborne’s Journey
Elisabeth Moss has called the finale of The Handmaid’s Tale a deeply personal milestone. She directed the final episode, titled “The Handmaid’s Tale,” which sees June return to the charred Waterford house where her story began. Moss revealed she closed the set for the final scene to focus on delivering an authentic performance, both as an actor and director. This moment, where June records her experiences on a tape recorder, mirrors the novel’s structure, bringing her journey full circle. Moss shared that the script moved her to tears, emphasizing the cyclical nature of June’s story as she begins to document her fight against Gilead. The actress’s dual role as star and director showcases her versatility and deep connection to the character.
- Key Finale Moments:
- June revisits the Waterford house, reflecting on her survival.
- She records her story, echoing the novel’s narrative device.
- The episode sets up The Testaments, leaving Hannah in Gilead.
Elisabeth Moss on Motherhood and June’s Evolution
Moss’s portrayal of June has evolved dramatically since 2017, and her recent comments highlight how motherhood shaped her approach. As a mother herself, Moss connected deeply with June’s relentless drive to protect her daughters, Hannah and Nicole. In the finale, June promises to keep fighting to shield girls like her own from Gilead’s horrors. Moss explained that this maternal instinct gave her performance new depth, especially in scenes where June entrusts Nicole to her grandmother while vowing to continue the rebellion. Fans have praised Moss for channeling this fierce protectiveness, making June a symbol of resilience. Her ability to convey rage and hope has cemented her as one of TV’s most compelling leads.
Is Gilead Destroyed? Unpacking the Finale’s Ambiguity
The question on every fan’s mind—“The Handmaid’s Tale” ending explained: Is Gilead destroyed in the series finale?—doesn’t have a tidy answer. While Boston falls to the U.S. forces after a devastating bomb kills key commanders, Gilead persists elsewhere. Moss herself noted that the ending feels right because it avoids neat resolution. June’s story concludes with her poised to keep fighting, her daughter Hannah still trapped in Gilead. This open-ended closure aligns with the upcoming The Testaments, where characters like Aunt Lydia will take center stage. Moss’s performance in these final moments, especially her stoic resolve amid celebration, underscores June’s transformation from victim to warrior.
A New Era for Elisabeth Moss
Beyond The Handmaid’s Tale, Elisabeth Moss is already looking ahead. She’s teased potential involvement in The Testaments, though her exact role remains unclear. Recent news also highlights her work on Shell, a film she starred in and was directed by her Handmaid’s co-star Max Minghella, which premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival in 2024. Moss’s passion for directing is growing, and she’s expressed excitement about future projects where she can blend acting and filmmaking. Her ability to navigate heavy themes while maintaining a collaborative spirit has earned her praise from co-stars like Yvonne Strahovski and Ann Dowd, who called her the “beating heart” of the series.
Why Moss’s Legacy Endures
Elisabeth Moss has left an indelible mark on The Handmaid’s Tale, turning a dystopian novel into a cultural touchstone. Her Emmy-winning performance, coupled with her directorial finesse, has sparked conversations about resistance, feminism, and survival. The finale’s haunting visuals—stark colors, grim lighting, and Moss’s determined gaze—linger with viewers. As she moves into new projects, Moss carries the weight of June’s legacy, inspiring fans to reflect on the real-world parallels of her story. The actress’s ability to humanize such a complex character ensures her influence will resonate for years.
Join the Conversation
What did you think of Elisabeth Moss’s performance in the The Handmaid’s Tale finale? Share your thoughts in the comments and let us know how June’s journey impacted you. Stay tuned for updates on Moss’s next moves and The Testaments!