Joel and Ellie will ride again this spring as HBO's critically acclaimed series The Last of Us returns for its second season this April, as announced by video game co-creator and series showrunner Neil Druckmann during the CES tech conference held in Las Vegas. The series, which boasts eight Emmy wins and 24 nominations, is set to continue its gripping narrative adapted from the popular video game franchise.
Druckmann, who serves as both writer and executive producer alongside Chernobyl creator Craig Mazin, shared the exciting news along with the release of a new teaser. This teaser offers fans their first look at key sequences from the game, reimagined for the screen. "It doesn't matter if you have a code like me," says Kaitlyn Dever, making her debut as Abby—a character expected to play a pivotal and controversial role as the season progresses.
The upcoming season will focus on the events of 2020's The Last of Us Part II, which picks up years after the first installment, showcasing Joel (Pedro Pascal) and Ellie (Bella Ramsey) living peacefully within the Jackson commune alongside Joel’s brother, Tommy (Gabriel Luna), and his wife, Maria (Rutina Wesley). The tranquility is shattered by a traumatic event, propelling Ellie on a quest to seek justice against those responsible.
Fans of the video game will undoubtedly find excitement surrounding the anticipated story shocks, as they are familiar with the emotionally charged and complex arcs to be adapted. The teaser hints at various key moments, including Abby maneuvering down a dark hallway illuminated by the glow of emergency exit signs, and Ellie preparing for confrontation, her gun raised and determination evident.
Further, the teaser shows highlights of intimacy among characters, such as Ellie engaging in tender moments with Dina, portrayed by Isabela Merced, who serves as her love interest within the Jackson commune. These personal connections will undoubtedly add depth to the series, challenging the characters amid the grim backdrop of their reality. Fans can also expect intense sequences, including Ellie and Dina scrambling for survival amid abandoned subway cars—a harrowing reminder of the chaos surrounding them.
On the awards front, the first season of The Last of Us garnered significant recognition, with acting nominations for both Pascal and Ramsey, alongside guest stars such as Anna Torv and Melanie Lynskey. Nick Offerman and Storm Reid took home Emmy awards, showcasing the caliber of talent involved with the series.
This next chapter promises to introduce new characters integral to Abby’s storyline, such as Owen (Spencer Lord), Mel (Ariela Barer), Nora (Tati Gabrielle), and Manny (Danny Ramirez). Along with Merced’s Dina, Young Mazino (known for Beef) will feature as Jesse, described as Ellie’s close friend and Dina’s ex-boyfriend.
Adding to the emotional complexity is the introduction of Joel’s therapist, played by Catherine O'Hara, who will help Joel grapple with the trauma he endured from the events of the first season. Also returning is Jeffrey Wright, reprising his role from the video game as Isaac, the leader of a militia embroiled in conflict—hinting at larger societal themes prevalent throughout the narrative.
With the premiere of season 2 on the horizon, fans of The Last of Us are abuzz with anticipation. The blend of intense storytelling, character evolution, and gripping drama sets the stage for what could become another compelling chapter within this acclaimed series.