Samira Wiley & Sam Jaeger Talk The Handmaids Tale, Elizabeth Moss and Character Arcs

The stars of The Handmaids Tale, Samira Wiley and Sam Jaeger, reflect on their journey through Gilead, from unexpected character arcs to working with Elizabeth Moss as both a co-star and director.

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Here's more of what they talk about:
(00:50) Samira Wiley reflects that she never imagined the show would last six seasons, especially since season 1 covered the book in full.
(01:27) She explains how the actors and writers developed a collaborative rhythm over time, with writers adapting to the actors' cadences and performances.
(02:04) Sam Jaeger shares he originally joined as a guest star and didn’t expect to return—his role expanded as a way to express Gilead's larger political themes.
(02:33) Jaeger notes that his character Mark was used to convey context, replacing the need for exposition.
(03:11) He recalls a pivotal episode where Mark tricks Fred into being arrested, reflecting on the production's attention to detail and purposeful direction.
(03:41) A drone shot discussion led Jaeger to realize the show's visual and narrative intentionality, deepening his respect for the team’s precision.
(04:12) Both actors discuss how Elizabeth Moss, who also directs, brings unique efficiency and collaboration thanks to her acting background.
(04:56) Wiley highlights Moss’s consuming passion and respect for fellow actors, making the on-set experience more trusting and collaborative.

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