‘Handmaid’s Tale’ Series Finale Reunites Janine, Ends Six-Season Story

Madeline Brewer reflects on her six-season portrayal of Janine in Hulu's The Handmaid's Tale, highlighting the character's brutal journey and emotional ending in the series finale. Janine, who endured horrific physical and psychological abuse in Gilead, is finally reunited with her daughter Charlotte after being rescued and returned to June, a moment that Brewer describes as deeply emotional for both herself and fans. Brewer credits the show's writers for allowing Janine to evolve from her troubled beginnings into a resilient and compassionate figure, a transformation that has personally impacted Brewer. The finale also sets the stage for the upcoming sequel series, The Testaments, which continues the story of Gilead but does not depict June reclaiming her daughter Hannah, reflecting the narrative constraints from Margaret Atwood's follow-up novel. Brewer expresses bittersweet feelings about ending the role, acknowledging how much Janine has shaped her understanding of sisterhood and resilience. Additionally, Brewer's recent work on the series You complements her engagement with complex characters who challenge societal norms and oppression.