HBO’s ‘The Last of Us’ season 2 is set to arrive in the first half of 2025, and fans are already bracing for the emotional rollercoaster it might come with. Given the game’s complex storytelling and expanded character arcs, the show has the monumental task of deciding what to keep and what to possibly change.
As we inch closer to the premiere, theories are flying about how season 2 will unfold. Will Joel’s fate remain unchanged? Where will the season end? Could certain scenes be moved around in the timeline? So, let’s take a look at three major theories that could shape the next chapter of the show.
1. Abby’s Backstory Reveal
One of the biggest storytelling challenges of ‘The Last of Us’ season 2 is Abby’s role. In the game, she starts as a mysterious antagonist. However, as the story unfolds, players come to understand her motivations and even sympathize with her. If the show follows the game’s structure, season 2 could spend most of its time on Ellie’s perspective before shifting gears in a later season to explore Abby’s side of the story.
Related: ‘The Last of Us’ Season 1 Ending Explained: Why Does Joel Lie To Ellie? Does She Find Out The Truth?
Moreover, throughout the production of season 2, leaks and official set photos have provided hints about the show’s structure. We’ve seen images of Ellie’s journey through Seattle, from the Capitol Hill battle to the aquarium. However, noticeably absent from most behind-the-scenes footage is Kaitlyn Dever’s Abby. This strongly suggests that season 2 will follow the game’s format.
The game originally cuts to black right after Abby confronts Ellie in the theater. While this was an effective cliffhanger in the game, it might not work as well in a TV format. Waiting two years for season 3 without any resolution is not something fans would look forward to. Instead, the show could take a different approach.
Additionally, by ending season 2 with Abby’s backstory, the show would ensure that audiences don’t just see her as an irredeemable villain. Instead, they would go into season 3 understanding her loss and her motivations. This theory suggests that season 2 won’t just end in a shocking moment.
2. ‘The Last Of Us’ Season 2 Might Include A Crucial Scene From The End Of The Game
One of the most unexpected moments in ‘The Last of Us’ season 2 trailer is a brief shot of Ellie watching Joel play guitar on the porch in Jackson. This scene mirrors a pivotal moment that occurs at the end of the game. This has led to speculation that season 2 might restructure the timeline to include this emotional flashback earlier.
Throughout Part II, Ellie struggles with her feelings about Joel’s death, haunted by both love and resentment. The porch scene is a heartbreaking moment where she tells Joel, “I don’t think I can ever forgive you for that… but I’d like to try.” It’s the last conversation they ever have, and it ultimately informs her decision at the game’s climax.
The game leans heavily on flashbacks, gradually revealing key moments between Joel and Ellie. However, showing the scene earlier in the show could help viewers understand Ellie’s conflicted emotions sooner. Another possibility is that the porch scene will be shown as a brief, haunting memory rather than a full conversation. In the game, Ellie frequently experiences intrusive flashbacks of Joel’s death, and these moments shape her increasingly reckless decisions. So, the porch scene could serve as a powerful way to depict Ellie’s trauma.
3. Joel’s Death Would Be Delayed In The Show
Arguably the most devastating moment in ‘The Last of Us’ Part II is Joel’s brutal death at the hands of Abby. It’s shocking and heartbreaking and sets the entire revenge story into motion. However, the question remains: Will the show follow the game’s lead and kill Joel in the first episode, or will it delay his death to build up his relationship with Ellie?
In case you missed it: ‘The Last Of Us’: Why Did Joel Kill Marlene?
Season 1 stuck closely to the first game, and if HBO continues that approach, Joel’s death will happen in the opening episodes. This would ensure that the emotional impact remains just as raw and gut-wrenching as it was in the game. Additionally, killing Joel right away would immediately establish the darker tone of season 2 and set up Ellie’s revenge without delay.
However, given Pedro Pascal’s immense popularity, HBO might want to extend Joel’s screen time before killing him off. This could involve adding new scenes of him bonding with Ellie, which would make his eventual death even more devastating. Moreover, while Joel’s fate is inevitable, the timing of his death could drastically change how Season 2 unfolds.
