Viewers of The Testaments are left questioning whether Dr. Grove will face consequences for his heinous acts in the Disney Plus series. This article contains spoilers for the show and mentions of sexual abuse.
Dr. Grove's Crimes Exposed
In Episode 8 of the sequel to The Handmaid's Tale, Hulda (played by Isolde Ardies) reveals that Dr. Grove (Randal Edwards) sexually abused her during a dental appointment. This follows a similar assault on Agnes (Chase Infiniti) in Episode 4, which she kept secret. When Agnes notices Hulda's distress, she encourages her to speak up. Hulda reports the abuse to the Aunts, but they advise both girls to pretend nothing happened, seemingly letting the doctor off the hook.
Dr. Grove's Fate in the Book
In Margaret Atwood's novel, Dr. Grove meets a brutal end. Aunt Lydia (Ann Dowd) orchestrates his public execution: he is torn to pieces by Handmaids. After learning of his abuse of young girls, including his own daughter Becka (Mattea Conforti), Lydia frames Grove for attempting to assault Aunt Elizabeth. At his trial, the Aunts ensure his conviction. An excerpt from the novel describes his death: "As he was led out to the field, arms pinioned, he screamed, 'I didn't do it!' Aunt Elizabeth, the picture of outraged virtue, sternly blew the whistle. In two minutes, Dr. Grove was no more. Fists were raised, clutching clumps of bloodied hair torn out by the roots."
Will the Show Follow the Book?
While the series has deviated from the novel, Aunt Lydia hints in the latest episode that Grove will face repercussions. The final two episodes, airing May 20 on Disney+, will reveal his fate. Fans eagerly await to see if the show mirrors the book's grim justice.
If you need support or advice on matters raised in this article, please visit www.rapecrisis.org.uk, call the 24/7 Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Line on 0808 500 2222, or chat to Rape Crisis online at 247sexualabusesupport.org.uk.
