Why The Handmaid’s Tale Ended After Season 6 Explained

Why The Handmaid’s Tale Season 7 Isn’t Happening: The Real Reason Behind the Final Season

After six unforgettable seasons, The Handmaid’s Tale has officially come to an end—and no, it wasn't canceled. The decision to wrap up the dystopian drama was intentional, carefully planned by the creative team behind the series.

Creator Bruce Miller, who adapted Margaret Atwood’s novel for Hulu, always had a clear vision for the show’s arc. In fact, he originally imagined the series ending after five seasons. But as the story evolved and fans stayed deeply invested in June Osborne’s journey, that arc expanded slightly—culminating in a sixth and final season.

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Image source: The Handmaid’s Tale Finale

By ending the show with season 6, the writers were able to give a powerful, satisfying conclusion to June's emotional and political battle. They chose to close her story on their own terms, rather than risk dragging out the plot or repeating ideas. The finale offered closure, resolution, and hope—all while staying true to the show’s themes.

What Comes Next?

Although The Handmaid’s Tale is over, the world of Gilead isn’t going anywhere. Hulu has already greenlit a spinoff series called The Testaments, based on Margaret Atwood’s sequel novel. The new series takes place 15 years after The Handmaid’s Tale and follows new characters and stories in the same world.

So while June Osborne’s story may be complete, Gilead still has secrets left to uncover.