The Last of Us Season 2: Exploring the Possibilities Surrounding the Defining Joel Moment

Article Overview

Joel's demise is anticipated to take place towards the conclusion of the inaugural episode of Season 2 of The Last of Us, remaining faithful to the stunning introduction of the game.

It is conceivable that the series will prolong Joel's narrative, leading to his demise midway through the second season, thereby granting additional moments to be shared between him and Ellie prior to their fateful rendezvous with Abby.

The highly anticipated second season of HBO's The Last of Us faces increased pressure due to the unexpected and controversial opening of The Last of Us Part II. In the game, Joel, portrayed by Troy Baker and Pedro Pascal in the live-action show, is brutally killed by Abby, igniting Ellie's quest for revenge. Replicating the shocking and controversial impact of this opening in the television series will undoubtedly be a challenge. Alternatively, the show could take a different approach by having Joel accompany Ellie on her revenge journey, resulting in a shocking twist that leaves viewers in astonishment at the end of Season 2.

Before the strike began, Pedro Pascal, the star of The Last of Us, expressed his uncertainty about how the show would handle Joel's death and the extent of his presence in season two. While Joel's death generated controversy, it also resulted in some of the most compelling storytelling in the history of video games. However, as television operates in a different medium, the showrunners may opt for a unique and unexpected approach to adapting the game. As The Last Of Us season 2 gears up for production in early 2024, the revelation of Joel's fate is merely a matter of time.

6. Joel Will Die In The First Episode Of The Last Of Us Season 2

Keeping The Structure Of The Game

The most plausible outcome for The Last of Us season 2 suggests that Joel's demise will occur in the inaugural episode if the show remains faithful to the video game. Taking into account the significant time gap between seasons, the story propels forward several years, revealing a tenuous relationship between Joel and Ellie after she discovers the truth about his ruthless killing spree at the hospital. Their reunion is short-lived, as Abby, the vengeful offspring of the murdered doctor, arrives seeking retribution, ultimately delivering a fatal blow to Joel.

The first season of The Last Of Us stayed incredibly faithful to the video games, almost to a fault. Hence, it is logical to expect the second season to maintain the same level of faithfulness. Unfortunately, this might limit Pascal's screen time; however, Bella Ramsey, portraying Ellie, is more than capable of carrying the show. Ellie's journey for vengeance alone has the potential to sustain multiple seasons. Additionally, for viewers unfamiliar with the games, this shocking opening can instantly captivate and engage them. Although it may not surprise those who have played the games, it could still be the most effective approach to narrate the story.

5. Joel Will Die Mid-Way Through The Last Of Us Season 2

Extending The Game's Timeline But Keeping The Same Story

Showrunner Craig Mazin has discussed the need for multiple seasons to fully bring to life the expansive storyline of The Last of Us Part II. The game's extensive length and intricate plot cannot be condensed into just eight TV episodes. However, this offers the opportunity to delve deeper into the game and explore additional character interactions. While maintaining the original story and structure, one possible alteration could be to have Joel's demise occur midway through the second season. This adjustment would provide the audience with more time to spend with both Joel and Ellie before Abby ultimately tears them apart.

4. Last Of Us Season 2 Will Tell The Game's Story In A More Linear Fashion

Postponing Joel's Death

Joel's scenes in the game predominantly consist of flashbacks set in the interval between the games. These poignant flashbacks unravel the revelation of Ellie's discovery about the fireflies, combined with their eventual reconciliation. While these scenes greatly enhance the game's impact at precisely timed moments, the narrative structure for television might benefit from presenting the story in a linear fashion, with these flashbacks forming the core of the second season. Adopting this approach would not only expand the game's storyline across multiple seasons but also provide ample opportunity for the audience to further connect with Joel.

3. Joel Will Die At The End Of The Last Of Us Season 2

Changing The Story And Giving The Character More Screen Time

Should the show choose to deviate from the original story and introduce significant changes to Joel's demise, it would present a captivating cliffhanger to conclude season 2. In this alternative scenario, rather than serving as the catalyst for Ellie's vengeful journey towards Abby, Joel would accompany her on this perilous quest only to face a gruesome fate upon reaching their destination. Consequently, not only would this allow for an entire season devoted to exploring Joel and Ellie's struggles following the events of the first game, but it would also deliver an unexpected and shocking twist to captivate viewers, regardless of their familiarity with the game.

2. Joel Won't Die In Season 2

Saving That Storyline For A Future Season

Although it may be mere speculation, it is plausible that Joel's survival in season two of The Last of Us is not entirely out of the question. Perhaps the creators have deliberately reserved that storyline for future episodes, as there is an abundance of potential to delve into the show's world and characters. Rather than hastily reaching the definitive conclusion of the second game, it may be advantageous to embrace a slower-paced narrative for The Last of Us season 2. While Joel's eventual demise is highly probable, there is no urgency to expedite the process.

1. Last Of Us Season 2 Will Have Even More Flashbacks Than The Game

Allowing Pedro Pascal To Be In The Show More

Regardless of how The Last Of Us season 2 chooses to approach Joel's demise, it does not signify the end for the character or Pascal, as they could potentially make appearances in future episodes. Similar to the game, the show will likely incorporate various flashbacks featuring Joel and Ellie, but it could take it a step further. While the game primarily follows a linear storyline with a few flashbacks, the show could divide its focus equally, dedicating half of the season to exploring Joel's past. This could include delving into his life before the outbreak and depicting how he evolved as both a person and a father.

Editor's P/S

As a Gen Z netizen, I have mixed feelings about the upcoming second season of The Last of Us. On the one hand, I am excited to see how the show will adapt the controversial opening of the game, in which Joel is brutally killed by Abby. On the other hand, I am worried that the show will not be able to capture the same level of emotional impact as the game.

I think it is important for the show to remain faithful to the source material, but I also believe that it needs to make some changes in order to work as a television series. For example, I think it would be a good idea to extend the timeline of the second season so that we can spend more time with Joel and Ellie before his death. This would give us a chance to see their relationship develop and to understand why Ellie is so devastated by his loss.

I am also curious to see how the show will handle the character of Abby. In the game, Abby is a complex and sympathetic character, but she is also responsible for Joel's death. I think it will be a challenge for the show to make Abby relatable to viewers without making her seem like a villain.

Overall, I am cautiously optimistic about the second season of The Last of Us. I think it has the potential to be a great show, but I also think it has the potential to be a disappointment. I will be keeping my fingers crossed that the showrunners are able to strike the right balance between faithfulness to the source material and creative innovation.