Young Mazino has seen his star rise in Hollywood, but there was a lot he went through before reaching that point. It was only two years ago that he was working as a dishwasher. At present, he becomes successful by acting the role of Jesse in The Last of Us Season 2, which had its premiere in early April 2025 on HBO.
Not only is Mazino’s performance getting great reviews from critics, but it is also eliciting praise from fans. Unknown to many, there is just no telling what Mazino went through to make it to where he is now.
His Role in The Last of Us
An essential character to the storyline, Jesse played by Young Mazino, is the one who interacts with Ellie and thus amplifies the realness of emotions in the narrative. Jesse is a moral, friendly, and calm character that is only found in video games.
When asked by CBR in an interview, Mazino described the whole process of moving to The Last of Us as “unreal” and he was very clear that the writers of the show did a good job on the characters, making them “feel” more. The teen star said, “You are not merely finding a way to escape from the zombies. You still have to learn how to remain human”.
Jesse’s interactions with Ellie and other characters were a significant source of the second season’s rising energy. The series’ gamers already know what the outcome will be, but Mazino goes on record promising the series will provide fresh perspectives on the character of Jesse.
His Difficulties During Filming
Another topic that Mazino addressed was the problems he faced doing the role. In an emotionally charged scene, his hamstring was pulled, but the actor continued his performance before seeking assistance from the on-set medical team. Such was the level of commitment he manifested.
“Right from the time you are on the set, you feel the responsibility to give it all you can,” he said in an interview he did with dazzle that you
Concrete Playground. “Everyone is at the top of their game, and I didn’t want to fall short,” said the talented artist.
He then pointed to his own taekwondo experience as a factor in his fitness for the role. Mazino has attained the rank of a black belt and has been practicing martial arts since he was a child.
From Beef to Bigger Roles
Prior to the days spent on The Last of Us, Mazino made a name for himself acting in Netflix’s Beef, where he appeared with Steven Yeun and Ali Wong. His performance in the series even got him an Emmy nomination, solidly indicating that his potential can be seen in characters beyond action heroes.
The character of Beef showed he could deliver that intense and heartfelt vibe to the audience. The same force of emotions can be noticed in the character of Jesse — a person who doesn’t need to raise the volume to be influential.
A Humble Beginning
Mazino’s progression and evolution into a successful actor are truly remarkable. Coming from Korea, his parents moved to Maryland where Mazino was born, and he had a hard time finding a suitable job. He was at the end of his rope, but the actor’s longing for acting remained steadfast even in the time of hardship.
Living in New York, he finally had the opportunity to have his acting career started and receive professional training. He said he was struggling but those years were really rewarding because that’s when he learned to accept the truth and be honest in your work, as the star of the movie in the interview with AP said.
What’s Next for Young Mazino?
During the period when The Last of Us Season 2 is gathering more fans, many of them are thrilled about the evolution of Jesse’s character and wonder what Mazino will be doing next.
Because of his experience, education, and the fact that he is becoming more and more popular, he is the perfect person to take over many more important parts in Hollywood. Casting directors are keeping a close eye on him—and at the same time, millions of new fans.
Mazino’s journey shows that an unlikely start can result in something extraordinary. In the move from washing dishes to being one of TV’s biggest shows, he is just opening up the way.
