Hulu is set to expand its acclaimed universe of *The Handmaid’s Tale* with a new spinoff titled *The Testaments*. This latest chapter is expected to introduce a fresh cast alongside returning favorites from the original series. The adaptation, based on Margaret Atwood’s 1985 novel, explores a dystopian future shaped by low fertility rates, leading to women being assigned to men for reproductive purposes.
Since its premiere in 2017, *The Handmaid’s Tale* has captivated audiences with its chilling portrayal of life in Gilead, a totalitarian society. The original cast, including Elisabeth Moss, Yvonne Strahovski, Madeline Brewer, Ann Dowd, O-T Fagbenle, Max Minghella, Samira Wiley, and Amanda Brugel, has been pivotal in bringing this narrative to life. Following the announcement of the final season in 2022, creator Bruce Miller transitioned to an executive producer role for *The Testaments*, with Eric Tuchman and Yahlin Chang taking over the day-to-day operations of the flagship series.
New Characters and Storylines Await
*The Testaments*, set 15 years after the events of its predecessor, will feature a narrative primarily driven by Aunt Lydia, portrayed once again by Ann Dowd. This spinoff introduces new characters such as Agnes from Gilead and Daisy from Canada, who secretly gather and distribute sensitive information about the Gileadian regime. Their mission involves infiltrating Canada while posing as “Pearl Girls,” with Aunt Lydia acting as a covert insider.
“Although I could not continue with the story of Offred, I could continue with three other people concerned in these events and tell the story of the beginning of the end,” Atwood explained during a 2019 event. “How do these kinds of regimes disappear? I was interested in exploring that.”
Atwood has maintained an active role in the development of *The Testaments*, keeping Miller informed on her creative direction. “I read the scripts; I make notes on them,” she mentioned. “I have influence but no actual power. But luckily, we’re in accord most of the time.”
Meet the New Cast Members
The cast of *The Testaments* features a diverse array of talent. The character Agnes, June’s daughter, is portrayed by Chase Infiniti. Raised in Gilead and previously known as Hannah, Agnes becomes involved in the resistance against the regime.
Lucy Halliday plays Daisy, a Canadian teenager whose life is turned upside down as she joins the fight against Gilead. Another notable addition is Rowan Blanchard, who takes on the role of Shunammite, a privileged Gilead girl whose story intertwines with Agnes and Daisy.
Additionally, Mattea Conforti will portray Becka, a kind yet shy girl from a lower-class background who finds her place as a Supplicant and ally. Mabel Li joins the cast as Aunt Vidala, a powerful fundamentalist Aunt competing for authority within Gilead.
In another significant role, Amy Seimetz is cast as Paula, Agnes’ harsh stepmother, adding further complexity to the storyline. As *The Testaments* delves deeper into the lives of these characters, viewers can anticipate new costume choices and visual storytelling that reflect Atwood’s vision.
As *The Testaments* approaches its release, fans of *The Handmaid’s Tale* are eager to see how the legacy of this powerful narrative continues to unfold. With an expanded cast and fresh storylines, Hulu aims to capture the same intensity and intrigue that defined the original series.
