HBO's The Last of Us Features Major Character Death, Fans React

The second episode of 'The Last of Us' Season 2 delivered a devastating turning point with the death of Joel, a moment anticipated by fans of the game but shocking in its early arrival on the show. Co-creator Craig Mazin explained that the decision to place Joel's death early in the season was made to avoid 'tormenting' fans who knew the story, aiming for the event to feel natural rather than manipulative. The emotional scene, which left Mazin and star Bella Ramsey in tears, sees Joel killed by Abby as Ellie is left traumatized, setting up a dramatic shift in Ellie's journey. Critics and viewers noted that the show expanded on characters and provided more context than the game, particularly with added dialogue and the simultaneous infected attack, which enhances the complexity of the aftermath. Some fans appreciated these changes for adding depth, while others preferred the more ominous and ambiguous tone of the game's version. Overall, the adaptation's choices have sparked discussion about narrative pacing and emotional impact, highlighting the show's willingness to diverge from its source material for dramatic effect.