Handmaids Tale mystery hits London as cloaked figures appear amid shock survey
More than half of Brits feel like they're living in a real-life Handmaid's Tale 'thanks to Trump and Tate ' - as 30 cloaked handmaids appeared ominously in London this week. The haunting display of 30 figures clad in red dresses and cloaks and white bonnets took place on the steps of Battersea Arts Centre in London on Thursday.
The group stood in solidarity ahead of the sixth and final season of the dystopian drama, which stars Elizabeth Moss and Samira Wiley, airing on Channel 4 from May 3rd. The gathering happened as a whopping 56% of people say they feel like they're living in a version of the dystopian novel and award-winning TV show by Margaret Atwood.
A survey of 1,500 adults, commissioned by Channel 4, revealed almost six in 10 (59%) say women's rights haven't progressed as expected by 2025. A staggering three-quarters of Brits (76%) believe there's no better time to speak up and discuss issues women still face, especially as 47% don't believe women's rights are being protected.
Trump's presidency (52%), the rising violence against women (45%) and Andrew Tate's online rhetoric (33%) have contributed to Brits' uncertainty and unease about their place in society. Of those quizzed, more than half (55%) said they were motivated to act now to safeguard their future, while more than a third (36%) recognised the need to unite and protest against the patriarchy.
Half of Brits (51%) agree the solution is more men supporting all women and women actively voicing and sharing their experiences (47%). Early education in schools (46%) and a focus on female leaders in power (32%) were also cited as issues that would create much-needed change and solidify the protection of women's rights.
The final season of The Handmaid's Tale is set to leave a lasting impact, with nearly half of Brits (48%) believing the nail-biting finale will inspire women to stand up for their rights.
The hugely popular series, which is set in a fictional highly misogynistic and repressive nation, has already shaped perspectives, with 40% saying it influenced their views on feminism and reproductive rights and 65% admitting it opened their eyes to what is really happening in the world.
Amber Kirby at Channel 4 said: "This groundbreaking series has captivated audiences all around the world and we're really proud to showcase the final season 'The Revolution is here' on Channel 4.
"This season shifts focus to the handmaids rising up as one, rallying against oppression and taking back control, which provides a satisfying conclusion and opens up vital conversations about the real-life challenges women face today."
Season 6 of The Handmaid's Tale will be show on Channel 4 from Saturday 3rd May.
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