Five Fast Facts About Serena Waterford On The Handmaid’s Tale

June Osborne may be the main character of The Handmaid’s Tale, but Serena Waterford has to be the most interesting. Not only is she one of the most dynamic characters on the show, but she has also been through so much in her life to get her to where she is today.

From her activist past to her shocking medical situation, here are five fast facts you need to know about Serena (Yvonne Strahovski) on The Handmaid’s Tale.

Activist Past
Prior to Gilead being formed, Serena was a religious-right activist. She was very passionate about her beliefs and even was once arrested for starting a riot. She spoke at schools about her thoughts and didn’t hold back when sharing what she believed in.

The Write Stuff
Along with being an activist, Serena is also an author. She wrote a book called “A Woman’s Place” and even considered writing another book about the importance of fertility.

Bite the Bullet
While speaking at a school to promote her book, Serena was met with a lot of hostility and protestors. People began throwing things at her and she couldn’t even give her speech because the environment was so chaotic. While she was leaving the school, she was shot in the stomach by a sniper.

Crime and Punishment
Under Gilead law, women are not allowed to learn how to read or write. Serena decided she wanted to try and change that law, but she was met with swift opposition. As punishment, she had her pinky finger cut off.

Selfless Moment
Serena’s bravest moment came when she decided to give up her daughter, Nichole, (though it’s technically June’s daughter), so she could have a better life in Canada. Though it was heartbreaking and emotional, she didn’t want her daughter being raised in this society.