After its release in January last year, HBO's adaptation of the PlayStation game The Last of Us quickly became one of 2023's must-see shows. Set in post-apocalyptic America, 20 years after the civilization has been ravaged by mutant fungus, the series follows the story of Joel and Ellie as the former tries to move her out of the quarantine zone to save humanity.
The game adaptation quickly became HBO's biggest debut, falling only behind House of the Dragon in viewership. The series was such a massive hit that it experienced a 22% increase from its first episode to its second, the biggest increase for an HBO original drama in history. With such an incredible success, it makes sense why fans want to hear about the show's next season. Here's everything we know about The Last of Season 2 so far.
Is The Last of Us Season 2 Coming?
Short Answer: Yes! HBO was quite quick in confirming the fate of its new hit. After two episodes aired, it was announced that The Last of Us was renewed for a second season.
"I'm humbled, honored, and frankly overwhelmed that so many people have tuned in and connected with our retelling of Joel and Ellie's journey. The collaboration with Craig Mazin, our incredible cast & crew, and HBO exceeded my already high expectations," said the executive producer Neil Druckmannn in a statement. He also added, "Now we have the absolute pleasure of being able to do it again with season two! On behalf of everyone at Naughty Dog & PlayStation, thank you!"
What is The Last of Us Season 2 Release Date?
Season two of Last of Us is officially confirmed to premier in 2025. However, there's no exact release date as of now. HBO confirmed the series' release window in its "The One to Watch" promo video. Showrunner Craig Mazin confirmed that The Last of Season 2 starts filming on 12th February 2024.
What Will The Last of Us Season 2 Be About?
The Last of Us Season 2 is likely to follow the event of the video game's sequel, The Last of Us Part II. Without spoiling what's coming, the story sees Joel and Ellie several years after the first game's events. Alongside working through problems in their relationship, a major act sets Ellie on a dangerous journey for revenge.
Who is Going to Be in The Last of Us Season 2 Cast?
While we still don't have confirmation, here's the cast you can expect in The Last of Season 2 -
Bella Ramsey as Ellie
Pedro Pascal as Joel
Gabriel Luna as Tommy
Rutina Wesley as Maria
Kaitlyn Dever as Abby
Young Mazino as Jesse
Isabela Merced as Dina
Spencer Lord as Owen
Danny Ramirez as Manny
Ariela Barer as Mel
Tati Gabrielle as Nora
That's not all; Catherine O'Hara is expected to play Gail, a brand-new character who will be in the show for three episodes. However, a few roles are still to be cast, Lev and Yara.
Will The Last of Us Go Beyond Season 2?
Having previously hinted the show could go into a third season, Mazin revealed in August 2023 that he could see the popular series running for four seasons in total.
"Some seasons, because of the story we're telling, will need fewer episodes, and some will need more. The best news is the audience wants more," he said. "We will not indulge a desire for more simply to make them happier when they hear how many episodes are announced. And if they don't like how many episodes are in a season because they want more, well, OK."