Interview: Joseph Fiennes discusses the new season of ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’, being recognized on the street and his dedication to the show’s overall message

If anyone were to take a picture of Joseph Fiennes from Shakespeare in Love and The Handmaid’s Tale, it would be hard not think that these were two different actors. Fiennes has this uncanny ability to morph into whatever role he takes on.

His actions as Commander Fred Waterford in the first three seasons of Hulu’s The Handmaid’s Tale were a major part of the spark which ignited the revolution which dominates Season 4. Mr. Waterford however, finds himself in a different place this season. He is no longer the captor and has become the captee. Will he have to pay for his crimes? We were lucky enough to speak with Joseph about season 4 and touched on how the tone of this season is vastly different then previous ones.  

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What stood out to me in the discussion was how driven Fiennes seems to be by the show’s message. Fred’s presence serves as a reminder of the world we could live in where woman weren’t treated as equals and just how dangerous government control can be. If there’s such a thing as the perfect antagonist then Commander Waterford truly is it. 

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He also touched on how people react when they recognize him from the show and how the writing plays a big part in why fans hate his character so much. 

The first three episode of Season 4 of The Handmaid’s Tale are available to stream on Hulu now with weekly episodes every Wednesday.