This must be a jaw-dropper for some The Last of Us fans, perhaps even more so than the death of Joel.
Actually, the Emmy nominations of 2025 hinted at it already: Abby, the protagonist who killed Joel, is now not only a part of the story but she is going to assume the protagonist role in The Last of Us Season 3.
This also means, of course, that Joel and Ellie will not longer be the center of the story.
Unbelievable Reaction from Kaitlyn Dever’s Latest Role in The Last of Us
Kaitlyn Dever, who is the actress behind the character of Abby, starred her way to an extraordinary nomination this season even though she had limited screen time.
The latest gossip among professionals is that her role in the second season was just the beginning then the third season will have the story of Abby as a focal point living in Seattle in a controversial manner just like in The Last of Us Part II video game did.
Majority Ownership Changed Hands
The turn of the focus is not the only revolution.
Neil Druckmann, the co-creator of the game and its HBO adaptation, has decided to not play a significant role in the production of the TV series. He has returned to the game’s developer, Naughty Dog, on a full-time basis.
Craig Mazin, who played a fundamental part in the film’s creation of Chernobyl, is, thus, responsible for the whole production work in the third season.
Even though Druckmann is not the part of the team anymore, the CEO of HBO, Casey Bloys, assured the press that he is not worried about the season, giving his words “We are beyond excited for Season 3; we are entirely in good hands.”
Third Season Is In The Works But Will Be A Distant Release
It was confirmed by HBO that the third season will be released no earlier than 2027.
According to information, a decision is pending on whether to make it one long season or divide it into two parts. Taking into account that the Ellie-Abby relationship is complicated emotionally, the producers are evaluating the structure of the upcoming season.
The long waiting time has not only increased the anticipation but also the eagerness of the fans, also to some extent the anxiety.
The Internet Is Divided
Abby has been an extremely controversial character since the moment she killed Joel. However, now she is being reintroduced not as a villain, but as a lead character with her own side of the story.
There are fans who are calling this change “courageous” and “new.” There are also others who are assuming they will unsubscribe if this happens.
The disunity is the truth and HBO appears to be willing to work with that.
What This Means for Viewers
Now that Joel is no more and Ellie is taking a backseat, the theme that will be explored in Season 3 is the perspective. It will be about the consequences of the story that is no longer centered on the hero but anchored on the one who made them a hero.
It’s quite a brave move. Nevertheless, The Last of Us has never shied away from taking risks.
And, if the initial responses are anything to go by, Season 3 may be a heartbreaker as well as the one that will redefine whom fans will be supporting
