As Hulu’s dystopian epic The Handmaid’s Tale gears up for its long-awaited series finale, fans are on the edge of their seats. Season 6 has delivered a whirlwind of emotional punches, political chaos, and deep character exploration — and with only one episode left, the stakes have never been higher.
Let’s break down what we know so far, key plot twists including: Does Nick Die in The Handmaid’s Tale, why the series faced bans in certain places, and when the series finale of Handmaid’s Tale officially arrives.
Does Nick Die in The Handmaid’s Tale?
One of the biggest cliffhangers from Episode 9 surrounds Commander Nick Blaine (played by Max Minghella). The Hollywood Reporter’s May 19 coverage revealed that Nick’s fate hangs by a thread after a confrontation with Gilead authorities. Though gravely wounded, showrunner Bruce Miller teased that “Nick’s story isn’t quite done yet” — suggesting that while death looms, there’s potential for resolution in the finale.
Fans who feared that Nick might die in The Handmaid’s Tale can still hold on to hope, but they should prepare for anything. The show has never shied away from emotional gut punches, and Nick’s complex relationship with June (Elisabeth Moss) may find either tragic closure or redemption.
When Is the Series Finale of Handmaid’s Tale?
According to The Economic Times and confirmed by Hulu’s official schedule, The Handmaid’s Tale Season 6 finale — Episode 10 — is set to release on May 26, 2025. The previous episode (Episode 9) dropped on May 19, and fans can now expect the final hour-long installment next week.
This finale marks the end of a powerful legacy that began in 2017, adapted from Margaret Atwood’s chilling novel. Over six seasons, the show has tackled authoritarianism, female autonomy, and human resilience, evolving into one of the most politically charged series in modern TV.
Why Was The Handmaid’s Tale Banned?
The show’s impact extends beyond television. Over the years, The Handmaid’s Tale has been banned or challenged in schools and libraries across the U.S. for its depictions of sexual violence, religious extremism, and totalitarian regimes.
According to USA Today, the source material (Atwood’s novel) appeared on the American Library Association’s list of most banned books multiple times. The series, with its raw and unflinching portrayal of systemic oppression, mirrored those controversial themes — making it a target of censorship in educational settings.
The bans reflect broader cultural anxieties. In a time of political polarization, The Handmaid’s Tale has become both a warning and a symbol — especially for activists advocating for women’s rights.
What to Expect from the Finale
As we approach the final chapter, all eyes are on June, Serena, and the fates of their respective children and ideologies. Episode 9 saw alliances fracture, blood spilled, and revolution stoked from within Gilead and beyond.
Major theories circulating online suggest:
- A final rebellion may erupt within Gilead’s core.
- June’s maternal role will be the emotional centerpiece.
- The resolution (or destruction) of Serena’s arc will mirror Gilead’s fate.
Given the show’s history of subverting expectations, fans should be ready for an ending that’s both gut-wrenching and thought-provoking.
Final Thoughts
With one episode remaining, The Handmaid’s Tale is closing a monumental chapter in television history. The final episode, airing May 26, will determine the fate of beloved and reviled characters alike. Whether you’re wondering “does Nick die in The Handmaid’s Tale,” or still reflecting on “why was The Handmaid’s Tale banned,” one thing is certain — the story’s impact will endure long after the screen fades to black.