The Handmaid’s Tale Showrunner Discusses Adding Backstory to Key Characters

Serena Joy Waterford’s character in The Handmaid’s Tale continues to reveal more layers and complexity with each new season. One of the most intriguing characters in Hulu’s hit show, Serena Joy Waterford, played by Yvonne Strahovski, has captured our attention with her evolution from a strong advocate of Gilead’s oppressive regime to a conflicted individual grappling with her past choices. The recent episode, “Exile,” delved deeper into Serena’s past by introducing her father for the first time, shedding light on her upbringing and the influence of her family.

As the story unfolds, we see Serena’s relationship with her father, a pastor, play a pivotal role in shaping her beliefs and values. Creator Bruce Miller describes this exploration of her family dynamics as an essential part of understanding Serena’s journey. By revisiting these key relationships in her life, the show aims to provide viewers with a more comprehensive view of Serena’s character and motivations.

The flashback scenes in the episode showcase Serena’s initial enthusiasm and optimism, contrasting with the grim reality of her life in Gilead. Her aspirations to bring about positive change and fulfill her father’s vision are met with disappointment and tragedy, highlighting the complexities of her character. Despite her past mistakes and actions, Serena continues to navigate the challenges of her present circumstances with resilience and determination.

The Handmaid’s Tale invites viewers to delve deeper into Serena Joy Waterford’s story, offering insights into her past and present struggles. With each new episode, we witness the layers of her character unfold, revealing the depth of her emotions and convictions. As the show continues to explore Serena’s journey, we are left to ponder the complexities of her character and the choices she faces in a world torn apart by oppression and injustice.

To follow Serena’s story and explore the intricate themes of The Handmaid’s Tale, tune in to new episodes streaming on Hulu every Tuesday. For more updates on the latest in entertainment news, including Marvel, Star Wars, Star Trek, and DC Universe releases, stay informed with io9.