Key Points:
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Ofmatthew’s loyalty to Gilead led to isolation and conflict with June and other Handmaids.
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Frances’ execution and repeated bullying pushed her toward a mental breakdown.
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Her tragic fate culminated in violence and death by Episode 10 of The Handmaid’s Tale Season 3.
Why Did Ofmatthew Turn Against June in The Handmaid’s Tale Season 3?
Ofmatthew (played by Ashleigh LaThrop) made her first appearance in The Handmaid’s Tale Season 3, Episode 2 as the newest shopping partner of June Osborne (Elisabeth Moss). Previously known as Natalie before the rise of Gilead, Ofmatthew initially displayed complete loyalty to the theocratic regime and its strict rules, unlike many other Handmaids.
This unwavering obedience made her unpopular among the Handmaids, especially after she reported June for conversing with Frances (a Martha and June’s ally). As a result, Frances was executed by the authorities, causing immense emotional trauma for June. In a moment of rage, June attempted to strangle Ofmatthew, blaming her for the loss of her only chance to get close to her daughter, Hannah.
By Season 3, Episode 8, the atmosphere had drastically shifted. The once obedient Ofmatthew became a social outcast. The Handmaids began ostracizing her—shoving her, taunting her, and even spitting in her drinking water. June, though at the center of the conflict, did nothing to stop it and sometimes fueled the animosity.
The tension escalated during a group meeting when Aunt Lydia (the enforcer of Gilead’s rules for Handmaids) joined in on the verbal bullying. June capitalized on the moment by revealing that Ofmatthew expressed doubts about giving up her unborn baby—a serious offense in Gilead. This public humiliation broke the last remnants of Ofmatthew’s mental stability.
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What Caused Ofmatthew’s Breakdown in The Handmaid’s Tale Season 3?
The pressure on Ofmatthew had been building for several episodes. Isolated, bullied, and grieving, she was overwhelmed by her guilt over Frances’ death and the emotional toll of being forced to give up another baby—the third time she would be doing so. Her internal struggle clashed with the harsh expectations of Gilead, pushing her to a breaking point.
The final trigger came when she saw June smirking at her sadness. This small gesture, perceived as mockery or manipulation, was enough to set her off. In a chaotic scene, Ofmatthew violently lashed out—striking Janine (who tried to comfort her) with a can, slashing a Guardian’s throat, and grabbing a gun. She pointed the weapon at June and Aunt Lydia before being shot in the shoulder by other Guardians to subdue her.
This act of rebellion was not just violence—it was the culmination of accumulated trauma, betrayal, and guilt. Ofmatthew’s final stand was a desperate expression of pain and loss, triggered by systemic cruelty and abandonment from the very people she tried to please.
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What Happened to Ofmatthew After Her Violent Outburst?
After being subdued, Ofmatthew was rushed to a hospital. Her condition deteriorated over the next two episodes. By The Handmaid’s Tale Season 3, Episode 10, Ofmatthew was declared brain-dead, marking a tragic end to her story arc.
Her breakdown and eventual death served as a critical turning point for June, who began questioning the full impact of Gilead’s brutality—not just on her, but on those she interacted with. Though Ofmatthew started as a perceived enemy, her fate underscored how no one is safe from Gilead’s inhumane system, regardless of how loyal they try to be.
Where to Watch The Handmaid’s Tale Season 3?
The Handmaid’s Tale, created by Bruce Miller, is available for streaming exclusively on Hulu. The dystopian drama features a critically acclaimed cast including Elisabeth Moss, Yvonne Strahovski, Alexis Bledel, Ann Dowd, and O-T Fagbenle. All six seasons, including Season 3’s intense arc surrounding Ofmatthew, are currently available for viewing.
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