Filming for the highly anticipated second season of The Last of Us is set to commence in early 2024. According to the FTIA production list, shooting will officially begin on January 7, 2024. The production timeline faced delays due to the recent strikes by Hollywood actors and writers, both of which have now concluded. Given that the series was not included in HBO’s 2024 programming announcement, it is likely that the new season will premiere sometime in 2025 at the earliest. This projection diverges from earlier comments made by Bella Ramsey, who portrayed Ellie in the first season, amid speculation regarding potential disruptions from the strike. The upcoming season will adapt storyline elements from the contentious sequel game, The Last of Us Part II, with intentions of extending its narrative across more than one season.
HBO was quick to approve a second season of The Last of Us, making the announcement only two episodes into the first season. The show has garnered a significant fanbase, and considering the expansive nature of the sequel game’s narrative, there is ample material for the studio to explore across multiple seasons. Lead writer Craig Mazin confirmed in an interview that the writing team has thoroughly planned out ‘all of season 2,’ having submitted the script for the first episode to HBO just prior to the writers’ strike. He collaborates with Neil Druckmann, the original creator of the 2013 game, who indicated that there are no plans to recast Ramsey, citing her portrayal of Ellie as exemplary. The Last of Us Part II delves into themes of cyclical violence, the futility of revenge, and the complexities of forgiveness amidst deep-seated anger.
Fans can expect an expanded version of the Kansas City storyline from the first season but on a grander scale, with relentless pacing. “There are going to be elements that differ, as well as components that remain unchanged. We will also introduce new elements and enrich existing ones,” Mazin stated during an interview, hinting at the possibility of featuring more action-packed sequences involving zombie encounters in the upcoming season.
A recent report suggested that Pedro Pascal, who plays Joel, is prioritizing Ridley Scott’s Gladiator 2, which may necessitate adjustments to other project schedules. Any postponements in the filming of Gladiator 2 could consequently affect The Last of Us season 2’s production timeline—unlike his role in The Mandalorian, where he can fulfill voiceover duties while others handle the physical performance.
The Last of Us Part II features a new character, Abby Anderson, who serves as the game’s antagonist. Following this, Mazin, Druckmann, and HBO are reportedly scouting for an actress to take on the role, with an undisclosed candidate being identified in August. An InSneider report has indicated that HBO is currently in discussions with Kaitlyn Dever, known for her roles in Booksmart and No One Will Save You, for the part. Earlier this week, The Last of Us season 1 received a nomination for Best Adaptation in The Game Awards 2023, in addition to securing 24 Emmy nominations earlier this year.
At this time, no specific release date has been announced for The Last of Us season 2.