Margaret Atwood, the source novel's author, makes a cameo as an Aunt in Offred (S1E1). She is the one who slaps June when she is reluctant to join in the group shaming circle.
Margaret Atwood has said that she was greatly inspired by George Orwell's classic dystopian novel, "1984".
The actresses have said that the head coverings they wear when they go outside are like blinders, completely cutting off their peripheral vision. The actresses can't see each other unless they're looking directly at each other. They have to act largely based on what they can hear.
Joseph Fiennes claims it takes him months to grow out his beard to play Fred Waterford, and the first thing he does after wrapping a season is to shave it off in his trailer, as a way of getting out of character.
Joseph Fiennes said that his wife does not watch the show, knowing the disturbing nature of Commander Waterford's character.