Based on the classic work of dystopian fiction of the same name originally written and published in 1985 by celebrated Canadian author Margaret Atwood, The Handmaid's Tale as adapted by series creator Bruce Miller for Hulu has become something of a mainstream success on the popular online streaming platform - and the latest word has season two officially on the way in 2018. Featuring starring turns from the likes of Elisabeth Moss of Mad Men fame and Samira Wiley fresh from her four season run on Orange is the New Black, the new original series takes more than a few cues from Atwood's increasingly prescient social fable.

Centering around a world in which the United States government has been overthrown in favor of a totalitarian theocracy called Gilead, The Handmaid's Tale examines the lives of several women as they suffer under various forms of political and personal subjugation. Ultimately, the search for independence and individualism rings throughout the core narrative, and is a story that appears to have found deep resonance with a whole new audience of 21st century viewers - who will reportedly have another full season in store for them later next year.

According to Variety, The Handmaid's Tale has just been renewed for a second season set to air in 2018, following reports that have the show garnering the largest viewership numbers of any other original program currently produced and distributed by Hulu. With so many critics and general viewers eager to see the new show, it should perhaps come as no surprise that Atwood's classic work of dystopian fiction would be greeted with such resounding success.

Elisabeth Moss as Offred in The Handmaid's Tale

Speaking to the network's enthusiasm for continuing to work on producing The Handmaid's Tale in 2018, Hulu SVP and Head of Content Craig Erwich was especially effusive in his praise of the cast and crew's work thus far. Referring to plans going into season two, Erwich stated:

"The response we’ve seen to The Handmaid’s Tale in just one week since its premiere has been absolutely incredible. It has been an honor to work with this talented team of cast and creators to develop a series that has struck such a chord with audiences across the country. As we continue to expand our strong slate of original programming, The Handmaid’s Tale is exactly the type of gripping and thought-provoking storytelling we want to bring to viewers. We can’t wait to explore the world of Gilead and continue Margaret’s vision with another season on Hulu."

Fans of the first season of The Handmaid's Tale as it has aired on Hulu thus far are sure to rejoice at the news that season two is on the way for release in 2018, and those who haven't started watching the show yet have more than enough reason to do so now. In the mean time, here's to hoping for the very best as things continue to develop behind the scenes of the smash hit Hulu original series.

MORE: The Handmaid's Tale Character Guide

The Handmaid's Tale is currently available to stream online at Hulu.

Source: Variety