The Latest Addition to The Handmaid’s Tale Has Totally Transformed the Final Season
In the final season of The Handmaid’s Tale, the show could have easily leaned on its established characters and long-running storylines. Instead, it surprised viewers by introducing a new character who quickly emerged as a crucial player in Gilead’s ultimate showdown. Aunt Phoebe, portrayed by The Good Place’s breakout star D’Arcy Carden, made her debut in Episode 7. Initially, she seems aligned with Aunt Lydia (Ann Dowd), but that assumption fades quickly. What began as a minor role soon blossomed into one of the season’s most compelling narratives.
From the moment Aunt Phoebe appears, it’s evident she possesses a level of insight that sets her apart. After Commander Lawrence (Bradley Whitford) helps smuggle June (Elisabeth Moss) and Moira (Samira Wiley) back into Gilead, Phoebe is the one who opens the trunk and welcomes them — an early indication she’s allied with the resistance. Even June acknowledges Phoebe’s smooth coordination in rallying Handmaids and Marthas to disrupt Serena Joy’s (Yvonne Strahovski) wedding.
Tension escalates in Episode 8 when Aunt Lydia nearly discovers the missing Handmaids. Phoebe, though hesitant, pulls a knife and is ready to eliminate Lydia if needed. These moments hint that Phoebe’s true nature is far more complex than she initially appears. In the penultimate episode, she lightheartedly remarks, “I guess all that community theater finally paid off,” after June compliments how convincingly she plays the role of an Aunt, before revealing her real name as Ava.
Her true identity unfolds during the Mayday attack at the gallows, where Ava reveals her formidable combat skills, calm precision, and proficiency with firearms — traits of a highly trained operative. It turns out she’s a CIA agent embedded deep within Gilead, collaborating with Mayday and the US government under Mark Tuello’s (Sam Jaeger) guidance. While the length of her undercover mission remains unclear, her familiarity with Aunt Lydia and Gilead’s inner workings implies she’s been there a significant time, playing a long and carefully calculated game.
What makes Ava stand out isn’t just the shocking revelation of her real role, but the unique energy she brings to the series. In a world dominated by survivors, rebels, and oppressive systems, Ava’s composed demeanor and professional training contrast sharply with June’s raw, trauma-driven leadership. Although she’s an Aunt, Ava chose resistance rather than resignation, fighting to protect those around her despite the risks.
Ava’s background adds a fresh dimension to the show’s universe. The Handmaid’s Tale has rarely explored a female character with law enforcement or intelligence experience operating within Gilead’s regime. While the final season had much to resolve, it’s regrettable we didn’t get more time to explore her story. Her origin, motives, and how she assumed the role of an “Aunt” could have unfolded into a fascinating long-term arc.
Much of Ava’s impact is thanks to D’Arcy Carden’s standout performance. Known mostly for comedic roles, Carden blends charm with seriousness, instantly making Ava someone audiences can trust. Even before the big reveal, subtle cues in her posture, tone, and vigilance hinted at something different beneath the surface. Carden masterfully balances Ava’s mysteriousness with warmth, seriousness with a touch of humor, and always grounds her in emotional authenticity. Her interactions with the Handmaids, especially during moments of crisis, expose a deeply empathetic character beneath her professional exterior.
In just a handful of episodes, Ava has become one of the most unforgettable late additions to the series. She injects fresh vitality into the show’s heavy atmosphere, expanding the scope of resistance and challenging our understanding of Gilead’s grip. Whether or not she survives the finale, Ava’s presence has already left a lasting impression.