‘Orange is the New Black’ cast updates: Samira Wiley, AKA Poussey, lands major role in Hulu’s ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’

Samira Wiley is set to appear in “The Handmaid’s Tale” on Hulu soon. She was cast as a co-star in the upcoming drama series.

The Hollywood Reporter exclusively reveals that Samira is set to join the cast of “The Handmaid’s Tale.” The actress is best known for her role as Poussey Washington in “Orange is the New Black.” Her new stint on Hulu as a co-star is actually the first time that Wiley has been endowed with a full-time acting role.

“The Handmaid’s Tale” is based on the book of the same title by Margaret Atwood. The new drama series will consist of 10 episodes. Samira will star alongside Elisabeth Moss. The story focuses on life in Gilead, a dystopic totalitarian society that used to be part of the United States, writes The Times. Gilead faces several problems such as dropping birthrates, environmental disasters and the societal principle that treats women as State property.

Moss will take on the role of Offred in “The Handmaid’s Tale,” who is one of the last few fertile women in Gilead. She serves as a handmaid in the household of the commander. Handmaids belong to a social caste of women who are forced into a life of sexual servitude in Gilead’s final attempt to boost its population.

In “The Handmaid’s Tale,” Offred will interact with various characters, including the commander, other commanders, their cruel wives, other handmaids like her and domestic servants. Offred is traversing on very dangerous territory since she cannot trust anyone. Her ultimate objective is to survive and search for her daughter, who was removed from her.

Samira will play Offred’s college best friend, who is also a handmaid-in-training at the Red Center. Samira and Moss are expected to share details about their lives before Gilead in “The Handmaid’s Tale.”

Aside from “The Handmaid’s Tale,” Wiley is also set to appear in “You’re the Worst” on FXX. She is represented by Innovative Artists.

“The Handmaid’s Tale” TV adaptation was written by Bruce Miller, who will also serve as executive producer together with Daniel Wilson, Fran Sears, Ilene Chaiken and Warren Littlefield. Margaret Atwood will also serve as consulting producer.

“The Handmaid’s Tale” is set to premiere sometime in 2017. More updates and details are expected soon.