By Gamers who have engaged with The Last of Us Part II since its launch in 2020 have eagerly awaited the happenings that have emerged in HBO’s The Last of Us Season 2. These enthusiasts have an edge over viewers who are familiar only with the televised adaptation. As a result, one of Season 2’s new actors, Isabela Merced, recently offered some guidance for the audience watching the show.
This narrative contains spoilers up to The Last of Us Season 2, Episode 3. Cease reading now if you’re not up to date with the series.
“I believe when you watch this, it’s essential to embrace your emotions in every moment,” Merced stated via Variety. “I don’t think the writers and the creators of the game intended for you to be more knowledgeable [than the characters]. They didn’t want you to think, ‘Oh, everyone is evil because they’re pursuing their own interests.’ They genuinely want everyone to immerse themselves in their frustration and anguish.”
This anguish stems from the death of Joel (Pedro Pascal), the beloved character who was killed by Abby (Kaitlyn Dever) as payback for the murder of her father at Joel’s hands. This act has propelled Ellie (Bella Ramsey) to vow vengeance against Abby and her companions for taking away her surrogate father. Merced’s character Dina—who appears deeply infatuated with Ellie—is now in a precarious situation, joining Ellie on a quest for revenge that could endanger both of their lives.
“[The writers are] creating something impactful,” added Merced. “The dish isn’t finished yet… I don’t think you need to surpass the underlying message.”
Ramsey recently discussed the challenge of filming an emotionally intense scene from episode 3 focused on Joel’s demise. Joel may be gone in the current timeline, but Pascal still has a role in Season 2. The forthcoming episode of The Last of Us will also introduce Jeffrey Wright’s character, Isaac, whom he portrayed in The Last of Us Part II.
The Last of Us Season 2, Episode 4 is set to debut on Sunday, May 4 at 6 PM PT / 9 PM ET on HBO and Max.
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