Bruce Miller

The Handmaid's Tale showrunner, executive producer, and friend of the podcast, returns to Eyes On Gilead to reflect upon all of the events of Season 5 of the show. Now that we know what we know, he doesn't have to hold back! This is a must-listen for all fans of The Handmaid's Tale. What now for June? And Serena? And what did we glean about Hannah this season? There is an obvious spoiler alert for listeners: you must be up to date with all episodes of The Handmaid's Tale season five.

Bonus episode: Bruce Miller talks Season 5

We have just watched episode 10 of season 5 of The Handmaid’s Tale. The finale! This episode is called 'Safe' and it was written by Bruce Miller, and directed by Elisabeth Moss: Under threat, June must find a way to keep herself and her family safe from Gilead and its supporters in Toronto. This episode gives us so many character moments to wrap up for the season. Settle in for (over)analysis and predictions! Don't forget to tell us your own thoughts and theories. Use the hashtag #EyesOnGilead (Find us at: @anythingbutfifi / @NatalieHambly / @HaideeIreland / @Sana_Qadar)

'Safe' (510) recap

Stephen Kunken

As we wait for the finale of The Handmaid's Tale season 5, Fiona and Sana meet Stephen Kunken, whom we all know and loathe as Commander Warren Putnam. Stephen jumps into our Zoom room for a great chat to discuss the joys and the challenges of playing the villainous Commander in Gilead (and that's saying something). He also shares the backstory he invented for his character all of those years ago. It's a must-listen for all fans of The Handmaid's Tale. We couldn't let the passing of such a memorable character go without incident! Tell us what you make of it by using the the hashtag #EyesOnGilead (Find us at: @anythingbutfifi / @Sana_Qadar)

Bonus episode: Stephen Kunken (aka 'Commander Warren Putnam')

We have just watched episode 9 of season 5 of The Handmaid’s Tale (this cannot be the penultimate episode of the season). It’s called 'Allegiance' and it was written by Eric Tuchman and directed by Bradley Whitford (perhaps you've heard of him): June and Luke prepare for a rescue mission. Serena experiments with new tactics to have it all. There's so much to discuss within this episode, let's get to work. Don't forget to tell us your own thoughts and theories. Use the hashtag #EyesOnGilead (Find us at: @anythingbutfifi / @NatalieHambly / @HaideeIreland / @Sana_Qadar)

'Allegiance' (509) recap

We have just watched episode 8 of season 5 of The Handmaid’s Tale. This season is going too fast. This episode is called 'Motherland' and it was written by Yahlin Chang, and directed by Natalia Leite: June (Elisabeth Moss) receives an extremely tempting offer from a surprise visitor. Meanwhile, Serena Joy (Yvonne Strahovski) finally hits rock bottom and begins a desperate search for allies…any allies. This episode gives us so much of that world-building that we know and love, and some revealing moments into Lawrence. Join us for a deep dive and some wild predictions. Don't forget to tell us your own thoughts and theories. Use the hashtag #EyesOnGilead (Find us at: @anythingbutfifi / @NatalieHambly / @HaideeIreland / @Sana_Qadar)

'Motherland' (508) recap

We have just watched episode 7 of season 5 of The Handmaid’s Tale. It's called "No Man's Land" and it was written by Rachel Shukert and directed by Natalia Leite: "Alone and isolated, June and Serena must labour together for both to survive." (Wink). There are multiple call backs to previous episodes, and previous encounters between June and Serena. DO YOU UNDERSTAND US?! This episode touches on so many items on our season 5 checklist! We need the debrief, how about you? Tell us your own reactions and theories on Twitter. Use the hashtag #EyesOnGilead (Find us at: @anythingbutfifi / @NatalieHambly / @HaideeIreland / @Sana_Qadar)

'No Man's Land' (507) recap

We have just watched episode 6 of season 5 of The Handmaid’s Tale. It's called "Together" and it was written by Katherine Collins and directed by Eva Vives: June teaches Luke the basics of survival. Serena tests the hospitality of The Wheelers. And Aunt Lydia makes a surprising discovery. It's a big one this week and we need the debrief, how about you? Tell us your own responses and theories on Twitter at #EyesOnGilead (Find us at: @anythingbutfifi / @NatalieHambly / @HaideeIreland / @Sana_Qadar)

'Together' (506) recap

We have just watched episode 5 of season 5 of The Handmaid’s Tale. It's called “Fairytale” and it was written by J. Holtham and directed by Eva Vives: June and Luke venture into unfamiliar territory in search of information. Serena gets to know her new hosts. There is SO much going on in this episode, and with Luke playing such a large role, we need to talk it out with O-T Fagbenle. Stay to the end to listen to the valuable insights of the one and only Luke Bankole. Tell us your own responses and theories on Twitter at #EyesOnGilead (Find us at: @anythingbutfifi / @NatalieHambly / @HaideeIreland / @Sana_Qadar)

'Fairytale' (505) recap & O-T Fagbenle (aka 'Luke) interview

We have just watched episode 4 of season 5 of The Handmaid’s Tale. It's called 'Dear Offred' and it was written by Jacey Heldrich and directed by Dana Gonzalez. June works to overcome her violent instincts. Meanwhile Serena settles into her new role in Toronto, and Aunt Lydia helps Janine with her recovery. Let's get to work dissecting every moment of this episode, from the subtle differences between ecru and eggshell, to our relief at seeing Luke and June's sexy times. Tell us your own responses and theories on Twitter at #EyesOnGilead (Find us at: @anythingbutfifi / @NatalieHambly / @HaideeIreland / @Sana_Qadar)

'Dear Offred' (504) recap

Madeline Brewer

We're back with a bonus interview: We speak to Madeline Brewer, aka Janine LIndo, aka the most empathetic person in Gilead. "Poor Janine" but lucky us! We have so many questions about where we find Janine at this early point of season 5 of The Handmaid's Tale. Madeline's insights into how she plays Janine are essential listening for any fan of The Handmaid's Tale. (Note: make sure you've seen episodes 501 - 503 before listening, as we divulge plot details. Catch up at SBS On Demand).

Bonus episode: Madeline Brewer (aka 'Janine')

Join Fiona Williams, Haidee Ireland, Sana Qadar, and Natalie Hambly every week with SBS' award-winning The Handmaid's Tale companion podcast, Eyes on Gilead. There is a lot going on in this series and we think it helps to talk it out at the end of every episode. BEST COMPANION PODCAST - FINALIST - 2022 New York Festivals Radio Awards BEST ARTS &amp; CULTURE PODCAST - BRONZE AWARD - 2020 Australian Podcast Awards BEST FANCAST - 2019 Australian Podcast Awards

Best Handmaid&#39;s Tale podcast. Intelligent discussion and  I love when they catch some symbolism that I never would have noticed.

You don't own me

Just binged season 1 &amp; 2 of Handmaids Tale and thank god for these women and this podcast ! Really intellectual but also fun commentary about each episode.  A really great listen if you want to dive even deeper into Handmaids Tale.  Can’t get enough !

Just Binged Handmaids season 1 & 2

Eyes On Gilead: A Handmaid's Tale Podcast

We have just watched episode 13, which is unlucky for some but mostly for us, because it’s the finale of The Handmaid's Tale! Oh, and it's also not that great for Serena... The death of Eden sheds new light on her character and causes the women of Gilead to consider the legacy they’re leaving for the next generation of Gilead girls. Emily learns more about her new Commander - and Aunt Lydia gets much more than she bargained for when she pays a house call. The Marthas of Gilead have their moment - and we're not crying, you’re crying - and in the final moments of the season, June faces a difficult decision. There's so much to unpack, and we've got a full panel for the occasion.

Eyes on Gilead - 'The Word'

It's the premiere of The Handmaid's tale season three! We have truly been sent good weather. Join Fiona, Natalie, Sana and Haidee as they recap the first two episodes: 'Night' and 'Mary and Martha'. In these episodes: June helps Marthas with a dangerous task while navigating a relationship with her pious and untrustworthy new walking partner; Emily and Luke struggle with their altered circumstances; June navigates a meeting where she must face both Commander Waterford and Nick; Serena Joy attempts to recuperate at her mother’s home; and Lawrence teaches June a hard lesson about the difficult decisions he makes as a Commander. With two episodes to recap, let's get into it.

Eyes on Gilead - 'Night' + 'Mary and Martha'

We have just watched episode 11 of season 3 of The Handmaid's Tale, which is called 'Liars': June must rely on an unpredictable Commander Lawrence to execute her plan, but a terrifying return to a place from June’s past puts everything in jeopardy; Serena Joy and Commander Waterford take a clandestine trip. SO much is happening in this episode, as we race towards the season finale. It's a good one, so let's unpack it.

Eyes on Gilead - 'Liars'

Yvonne Strahovski

We have just watched episode 5 of season 3 of The Handmaid’s Tale, which is called Unknown Caller: June and Serena grapple with the revelation that Luke is caring for Nichole in Canada, leading to an incident that will have far-reaching ramifications. This episode challenges our opinions about Serena Joy, and we have very different reactions. This is a very big episode with big feelings, and especially for Yvonne Strahovski, who features in an interview about the events of this episode, and what it is like playing Serena Joy in all of her complex glory.

Eyes on Gilead - Interview with Yvonne Strahovski + 'Unknown Caller' recap

Joseph Fiennes

We have just watched episode 10 of The Handmaid's Tale season 3, which is called 'Bear Witness': Ready to strike back at her oppressors, June starts making arrangements for an ambitious plan, but a devious ploy on the part of Commander Waterford threatens to derail her. This is a big episode for Commander Fred Waterford, so it's fitting that this week we feature an interview with Joseph Fiennes. We get some incredible insights into what insights he brings to Fred. You won't want to miss it. With so much to unpack, let's get into it.

Eyes on Gilead - Joseph Fiennes interview + 'Bear Witness' recap

Mike Barker

We have just watched episode 7 of The Handmaid's Tale season three, which is called 'Under His Eye'. In this episode: June escalates her risky efforts to find Hannah, and her efforts have tragic consequences; Emily must face her past crimes as the ongoing international diplomatic crisis becomes more complicated; and Serena and Fred contemplate their future in Washington. This is a gruesome episode that shows how efficient Gilead has become at killing people, and boundaries are coming down in the best and worst possible ways. We recap and speculate about what comes next, and feature an interview with the episode's director and show executive producer, Mike Barker, who gives fascinating insight into making The Handmaid's Tale, as he prepares to shoot that creepy tango scene.

Eyes on Gilead - 'Under His Eye' + Director / EP Mike Barker interview

We have just watched episode 8 of season 3 of The Handmaid’s Tale, which is called 'Unfit'. In this episode: June and the rest of the Handmaids shun Ofmatthew, and both are pushed to their limit at the hands of Aunt Lydia; Aunt Lydia reflects on her life and relationships before the rise of Gilead. We got the Aunt Lydia backstory that we've been craving for almost three seasons. Was it worth waiting for? And let's talk about Ofmatthew's story arc: Natalie has theory, and wonders if we got a tiny glimpse of backstory at Loaves and Fishes. This is a big one. Let's talk it out.

Eyes on Gilead - 'Unfit'

We have just watched episode 12, which is called "Postpartum". June becomes Offred once more, and negotiates access to Holly. Nick (yes, he's back!) is rocked by Gilead’s brutal response to a crime. Emily is assigned to a mysterious new house. We meet a new character, and we say goodbye to another one in very dramatic circumstances, and yes, those circumstances bring with them another Gilead ritual. We also have some very big news about an upcoming guest on our show.

Eyes on Gilead - 'Postpartum'

Natalie Bronfman

Episode 6 of season 3 of The Handmaid's Tale offers a grim glimpse at the future of Gilead, and we need to talk about it. In 'Household': Fred and Serena ramp up their efforts to negotiate for the return of baby Nichole; June and Nick are reunited (but it doesn't feel so good); June makes an important connection as she attempts to protect Nichole; and Aunt Lydia seems rattled by the way they do things in D.C. This week we hear from costume designer Natalie Bronfman, who explains the design behind a nasty new addition to the Handmaid costume. You won't want to miss this episode.

Eyes on Gilead - 'Household' + Handmaid's Tale costume designer Natalie Bronfman interview

Ane Crabtree

On this episode of the Eyes on Gilead podcast, we discuss episode 3 of The Handmaid’s Tale, its theme of maternal guilt, and contemplate the ways the show is impacting the way we read the news. This week we’re also joined by a special guest, Handmaid’s Tale costume designer Ane Crabtree, who explains her iconic designs, and how it feels to see them used as symbols of protest in the real world.

Eyes on Gilead - 'Baggage' + Handmaid’s Tale costume designer Ane Crabtree

Join Fiona, Natalie, Sana and Haidee as they recap The Handmaid's Tale season 3, episode 4, 'God Bless the Child', in which: June negotiates a truce in the Waterfords’ fractured relationship; Janine oversteps with the Putnam family; and a still-healing Aunt Lydia offers a brutal public punishment. Also, we catch up with Emily in Canada, to see how she is coping - or not - with her trauma and reconnecting with her loved ones. There's a lot going on in this episode, so let's get into it.

Eyes on Gilead - 'God Bless the Child'

Ann Dowd

We're all on our best behaviour when Aunt Lydia joins us the show this week! 2017 Emmy winner and 2018 Emmy nominee Ann Dowd reflects on THAT finale, and gives us some exclusive insights into what makes Lydia tick. We're not going to say we get backstory, but we're not NOT going to say that, either. It's our final Eyes on Gilead for a little while, so we look back at our favourite moments of this season of The Handmaid's Tale, and speculate about what to expect when it returns next year.

Eyes on Gilead - Ann Dowd (Aunt Lydia) + Season 3 predictions

Daina Reid

We have just watched episode 10, which is called The Last Ceremony and you can probably take to have multiple meanings. A false alarm in the baby stakes humiliates Serena, and causes her to punish June and stage a revenge ceremony as a means to bring on the birth. The Commander - belatedly - tries to make amends with 'Offred'. Eden, the sneaky devil, pours her heart out to Nick but gets pushed further away. June is faced with an unexpected reunion. And we end on a cliffhanger, again! We are also joined by Daina Reid, who directs the next episodes and gives us some insights into what makes Aunt Lydia tick.

Eyes on Gilead - 'The Last Ceremony' + Handmaid's director Daina Reid

We have just watched episode 9 of The Handmaid's Tale season 3, which is called 'Heroic': Confined in a hospital, June’s sanity begins to fray, and an encounter with Serena Joy forces June to reassess her recent actions. We all have complicated feelings about this episode, and about the treatment of the character of Ofmatthew. There is a lot to unpack in this one, so let's get to it.

Eyes on Gilead - 'Heroic'

We have just watched episode 11, which is called Holly. As Serena and Fred deal with the fallout of their actions towards ‘Offred’ and we get a glimpse at the cracks in their facade, June faces a series of grueling challenges, alone, as she recalls her experiences as a mother. The episode culminates in an incredible scene and please just give Elisabeth Moss her Emmy right now.

Eyes on Gilead - 'Holly'

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