The highly anticipated second season of HBO's "The Last of Us" premiered on April 13, 2025, and it has already delivered a shocking twist that has left fans reeling. In the second episode, titled "Through The Valley," Joel Miller, portrayed by Pedro Pascal, meets a tragic fate at the hands of Abby, a character driven by revenge.
In this pivotal moment, Joel is brutally killed, a scene that mirrors a crucial event from the video game "The Last of Us Part II." This adaptation decision has sparked intense discussions among viewers, especially those familiar with the original game. While many might have hoped for a different outcome, the series remains committed to following the source material closely.
In Episode 2, viewers witness a tense chase where Abby, played by Kaitlyn Dever, is pursued by infected. Just when it seems she will be overrun, Joel intervenes and saves her life. Abby, realizing who has helped her, lures Joel and his companion Dina to a hideout. There, she sedates Dina and confronts Joel, revealing her true intentions. Abby shoots Joel in the knee and mercilessly beats him with a golf club, ultimately delivering a fatal blow with a spike to his neck.
Pedro Pascal, who has garnered significant acclaim for his portrayal of Joel, discussed the emotional impact of this storyline. He acknowledged that while he knew his character's fate when he signed on for the role, the moment still felt profound. "It’s not like they said, ‘Hey, we kill you at the beginning of season 2,'" Pascal told Entertainment Weekly. "But it was always an understanding that it would stay true to the source material in a specific way." He expressed respect for the deep investment fans have in the story, noting, "I think it is incredibly painful for people and that’s obviously a brilliant achievement of the storytelling."
Despite Joel's death, viewers can expect to see more of Pascal in the series. He is set to appear in a total of four episodes during Season 2, thanks to flashbacks and dream sequences that explore the complex relationship between Joel and Ellie, portrayed by Bella Ramsey. This narrative device allows the show to delve into Ellie’s unresolved feelings about Joel, who played a pivotal role in her life.
The show's co-creator, Craig Mazin, explained the reasoning behind the timing of Joel's death. He stated that there was a danger in prolonging the moment, as it could torment viewers who are aware of the game's events. "If people know it’s coming, they will start to feel tormented," he said. The creative team aimed to ensure that the death felt natural and integral to the story, rather than a mere shock tactic.
Fans of the series have taken to social media to express their heartbreak over Joel's demise. Emotional reactions poured in, with many sharing videos of the moment and expressing their sorrow. "This episode ended my peace of mind," one user lamented, capturing the sentiment of many viewers who were deeply affected by the scene.
As the season unfolds, the focus will shift more towards Ellie, who is driven by grief and a desire for revenge against Abby and her group. This transformation in Ellie’s character marks a significant narrative shift and sets the stage for the unfolding drama in the remaining episodes.
In addition to Pascal, the season features a talented cast, including Bella Ramsey as Ellie and Kaitlyn Dever as Abby. The series has been praised for its character development and emotional depth, effectively translating the video game’s themes to the screen.
The second season consists of seven episodes, with new installments released weekly on Sundays. Following the premiere, Episode 3, titled "Something’s Got a Hold on Me," is set to air on April 27, 2025. Fans eagerly await how the story will continue to evolve, especially after such a shocking turn of events.
Looking ahead, HBO has confirmed that "The Last of Us" has been renewed for a third season, which is expected to begin filming in mid-2025 in Vancouver. While the future of the series remains uncertain, the emotional weight of Joel’s death will undoubtedly resonate throughout the remaining episodes and beyond.
In summary, the second season of "The Last of Us" is shaping up to be a gripping exploration of loss, revenge, and the complexities of human relationships. Joel's tragic end serves as a catalyst for Ellie’s journey, promising a season filled with intense storytelling and emotional depth. As fans continue to process this devastating twist, one thing is clear: the impact of Joel Miller's character will linger long after his departure.
