Who plays Offred in the TV series?

Elisabeth Moss plays Offred in the television series The Handmaid’s Tale. The character is identified in the show as June Osborne, a woman whose assigned Gileadean name is Offred.

Moss’s performance follows June through captivity, forced reproductive servitude, resistance, escape attempts and the struggle to reunite with her family. The role depends heavily on restrained acting: June often has to conceal her thoughts in public, so silent reactions and private moments carry information that Gilead’s authorities cannot safely hear.

The casting can cause confusion because several other actresses play important Handmaids or women in June’s circle. Alexis Bledel portrays Emily Malek, Ann Dowd portrays Aunt Lydia, and Yvonne Strahovski portrays Serena Joy Waterford. Moss is also closely associated with the show behind the camera, serving as a producer and directing episodes. Her work as June earned major recognition, including a Primetime Emmy Award for Lead Actress in a Drama Series.