HBO has confirmed that Kaitlyn Dever will be portraying Abby in Season 2 of The Last of Us, putting an end to previous rumors. Production for Season 2 is scheduled to start in mid-February. Abby is a significant character in Naughty Dog's The Last of Us: Part II, and is anticipated to have a similarly important role in the TV adaptation. Laura Bailey originally played the character in the video game and has spoken out about the death threats and other negative messages she received.
Dever, known for her roles in Booksmart and No One Will Save You, was once linked to the role of Ellie in The Last of Us, and The Hollywood Reporter suggested that she may have even auditioned for the part. However, Bella Ramsey ultimately landed the role opposite Pedro Pascal as Joel.
"Our casting process for Season 2 has been identical to Season 1: we look for world-class actors who embody the souls of the characters in the source material," showrunners Craig Mazin and Neil Druckmann said in a statement to THR. "Nothing matters more than talent, and we're thrilled to have an acclaimed performer like Kaitlyn join Pedro [Pascal], Bella, and the rest of our family.”
Abby was rumored to have appeared in the Season 1 finale of The Last of Us, but Neil Druckmann of Naughty Dog debunked this fan speculation.
Despite breaking his arm, Pascal is set to undergo surgery shortly and assures that he will be fit for filming when production for Season 2 starts in February. The highly anticipated second season is expected to debut in 2025.
Editor's P/S
As a Gen Z fan of The Last of Us, I am thrilled about the casting of Kaitlyn Dever as Abby in Season 2. Dever is a talented actress who has proven her ability to portray complex and nuanced characters. I believe she will bring depth and authenticity to the role of Abby, who is a multifaceted and controversial figure in the game. I am excited to see how Dever interprets Abby's journey and brings her to life on screen.
I also appreciate the showrunners' commitment to finding actors who embody the souls of the characters in the source material. This dedication to authenticity is what made Season 1 of The Last of Us such a success, and I am confident that it will continue to be a guiding principle for Season 2. I can't wait to see how the story of The Last of Us unfolds in Season 2, and I am eager to experience Abby's journey through Kaitlyn Dever's portrayal.