As anticipation builds for the second season of HBO's hit series The Last of Us, actors Gabriel Luna, Isabela Merced, and Young Mazino, who portray Tommy, Dina, and Jesse respectively, have opened up about their experiences and insights into adapting beloved video game characters for the screen. The series, co-created by Craig Mazin and Neil Druckmann, has garnered critical acclaim for its storytelling and emotional depth, and the cast's approach to their roles reflects that dedication.
In a recent interview, the trio discussed the creators' advice against playing the video game before filming, a caution rooted in the desire to maintain fresh interpretations of the characters. "Craig told us not to play the game before shooting, and I get that. But I did play it anyway," admitted Young Mazino, who plays Jesse. He emphasized the importance of respecting the original material while also seeking authenticity in his performance. "You have to trust the writing, so it wasn’t hard to bring authenticity to my character," he said.
Gabriel Luna echoed Mazino's sentiments, revealing that he played the game from start to finish. "Like Young said, once it’s the big day and you’re there in the moment, everything is real," he noted. Luna emphasized the immersive world created by the producers, stating, "The producers created the world of The Last of Us for us, so it’s easy to get lost in it." He also shared that while actors can suggest changes, those ideas are only taken into account before the script is finalized. "Once it’s locked down, it’s perfect, and we don’t want to change anything for fear of ruining it," he explained.
Isabela Merced, who portrays Dina, highlighted the crucial role of trust between the creators and the cast. "Neil [Druckmann] isn’t controlling. He knows how to let us explore," she said, acknowledging the pressure of portraying a character that fans hold dear. Merced's journey to the role was unique; she was offered the part without an audition, a situation that made her feel particularly nervous. "I wanted to make sure that Craig, Neil, and Halley Gross (co-writer of The Last of Us Part 2 and some episodes in season 2) knew they made the right choice," she confessed.
The second season, which premieres on April 14, 2025, promises to delve deeper into the characters' relationships, particularly between Dina and Ellie. Merced has expressed a strong emotional connection to her character, stating that Dina reflects parts of her own journey. "I think every baby gay should be allowed to be confused and should be allowed to be curious and figure it out," she said, emphasizing the importance of LGBTQIA+ representation in media.
In a recent interview, Merced revealed her queer identity, stating, "I’ve been queer my whole life." This personal connection adds authenticity to her portrayal of Dina, especially as the character navigates her feelings for Ellie. The dynamic between the two characters evolves from friendship to romance in the series, a shift that Merced and co-star Bella Ramsey collaborated on. They even added romantic moments that were not in the original script to enhance the emotional depth of their relationship.
As Dina's storyline unfolds, viewers will see her confront significant challenges, including an unexpected pregnancy that complicates her relationship with Ellie. This twist forces Ellie to grapple with her feelings while managing the burden of being immune to the infection that has ravaged their world. Bella Ramsey, who plays Ellie, praised Merced's performance, calling her "brilliant" and highlighting the energy she brings to the set. "She really just had this unwavering energy about her the whole time, which was really great for being on set," Ramsey said.
Craig Mazin, a long-time fan of video games, first discovered The Last of Us in 2013, when the original game was released. His deep appreciation for the source material, coupled with Druckmann's vision, has set the stage for a compelling narrative in the upcoming season. The showrunners have already confirmed a third season, indicating their commitment to exploring the rich storylines and character arcs that fans have come to love.
As the premiere date approaches, excitement is palpable among fans eager to see how the series will adapt the complex themes and relationships from the game. The creators' faith in their cast and the actors' dedication to their roles suggest that the second season will not only honor the original material but also present fresh perspectives that resonate with both new and veteran viewers.
In a world where adaptations often face scrutiny, The Last of Us stands out for its ability to blend familiarity with innovation. As the characters navigate their journeys, viewers can expect a rich tapestry of emotions, challenges, and growth that reflects the human experience, even in a post-apocalyptic setting. With a talented cast and visionary creators at the helm, the second season of The Last of Us is poised to capture hearts and spark conversations.
