In a blood-red wave of retribution, Gilead’s revolution finally erupted in The Handmaid’s Tale Season 6, Episode 8. The episode titled “Exodus” unveiled how the iconic crimson uniform of Handmaids transformed from being symbols of oppression to battle flags as they orchestrated their vengeance against their oppressors, and many fans are wondering if Commander Bell dies.
What followed was a “systematic purge” of Gilead’s patriarchal leadership and the death of commanders. June’s monologue, which was an integral part of the story in earlier seasons, also returned in the episode. Through the former Handmaid’s commentary, viewers discover how the once-subjugated women are ready to reclaim their agency as they coordinate resistance.
Does Commander Bell live or die in The Handmaid’s Tale Season 6 Episode 8?
In the eighth episode of The Handmaid’s Tale Season 6, June finally frees Janine by killing Commander Bell. The Commander had essentially locked Janine up inside his house, and June knew that the only way to free Janine would be to murder the Commander.
As part of their coordinated plan of attack, the Handmaids drugged the wedding cake at Serena Joy’s reception, and the Handmaids don’t eat the cake, hiding it under their table. When June reaches Commander Bell’s house, he is already dozing off as the effects of the drug kick in.
But a sudden call wakes him up, and he finds out that June is standing in front of him. As he recognizes the former Handmaid, June says, “Nice to meet you,” and she stabs him in his right eye.
Commander Bell’s agonizing death became a befitting end for him, whose cruelty once made Handmaids suffer in silence. Following Bell’s death, June and Janine embrace each other and Janine thanks June for liberating her.
The episode also saw a pivotal character join June’s resistance. Aunt Lydia, who has preached religious verses and excused Gilead’s heinous acts, finally listens to June and Janine, who open her eyes.
