Elisabeth Moss recently participated in a panel discussion at the Tribeca Film Festival, where she shared her insights on the sequel to the acclaimed series “The Handmaid’s Tale,” titled “The Testaments.” Joined by cast members Chase Infiniti and Lucy Halliday, Moss opened up about her approach to stepping back from her prominent role as June in the new series.
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During the event on June 13, 2026, which was part of the Vulture Festival, Moss highlighted her position as both an executive producer and a guiding presence for the new cast. However, she emphasised that her intention was not to merely pass the torch but rather to inspire the new generation of actors to create their own unique narratives. “I didn’t want to pass the torch. I wanted them to light a new one,” she stated. This philosophy reflects her desire for the upcoming cast to flourish independently, rather than following in her footsteps.
Moss’s remarks illuminated the confidence she has in the new ensemble of actors, which includes Mattea Conforti and Rowan Blanchard. She expressed her view of them as “total professionals,” noting that collaborating with them felt no different from working with veteran actors like Ann Dowd. “They know what they’re doing there. I didn’t feel like I had to teach them anything,” she remarked.
The actress, now 43, conveyed a refreshing perspective on the evolution of the show’s narrative. “You also don’t want to mess with the freshness of it,” she explained, acknowledging the considerable journey audiences experienced with “The Handmaid’s Tale.” According to Moss, it was time to explore new directions after years of intense storytelling centred around June and her struggles within Gilead.
Moss pointed out that “The Testaments” offers a distinct voice through the lens of its younger characters, potentially leading to a more optimistic outlook. “This new perspective was also something we were craving and wanting,” she noted, after a decade of the darker themes prevalent in “The Handmaid’s Tale.” The new narrative seeks to pose critical questions about human behaviour and societal failures, reflecting the ongoing relevance of the story.
Further into the panel, Moss identified herself as “the biggest fan of The Handmaid’s Tale world,” reinforcing her deep connection to the franchise. “For me, just the idea of getting to see any of these characters continue… is so exciting,” she said. Moss also expressed enthusiasm about delving into unexplored territories within this established universe, stating, “There’s still a million things that I feel like we haven’t done that hopefully we’ll get to do.”
In preparation for the new series, Moss prioritised engaging in “deep actor talk” with her fellow performers, fostering an atmosphere of creativity grounded in collaboration. She emphasised the importance of allowing the new cast members to bring their interpretations and innovations to the role, ensuring that the story remains dynamic and fresh.
“The Testaments,” which is based on Margaret Atwood’s 2019 novel, marks an evolution not just in the narrative, but also within the fabric of the franchise itself. Moss’s commitment to nurturing new talent ensures that while she steps back from the forefront, the creative spirit of “The Handmaid’s Tale” will continue to thrive with innovative storytelling.
As “The Testaments” progresses, audiences are treated to a fresh exploration of Gilead’s world, diverging from the established paths of the original series. With Season 1 currently available on Hulu, viewers can anticipate a continuation of the themes they love, intertwined with new characters and narratives that promise to engage and challenge perspectives.
Elisabeth Moss’s involvement in the project speaks to her passion for the stories within this dystopian universe, as well as her profound respect for her fellow actors. With her support and belief in their capabilities, “The Testaments” is set to captivate both loyal fans and new viewers alike, ensuring that this compelling narrative continues to resonate.