First Official Images of Joel and Ellie Return in “The Last of Us” Season 2

Filming for Season 2 of “The Last of Us” is in full swing, and Warner Bros. Discovery has treated fans to a first look at Pedro Pascal as “Joel” and Bella Ramsey as “Ellie” from the upcoming season.

Following its groundbreaking debut season on HBO, which set records as the most-watched debut season of a series ever, the highly anticipated second season is slated to premiere in 2025 on HBO and will also be available for streaming on Max.

Returning to reprise their roles in Season 2 are Pedro Pascal as Joel, Bella Ramsey as Ellie, Gabriel Luna as Tommy, and Rutina Wesley as Maria. Joining the ensemble are new cast members Kaitlyn Dever as Abby, Isabela Merced as Dina, Young Mazino as Jesse, Ariela Barer as Mel, Tati Gabrielle as Nora, Spencer Lord as Owen, and Danny Ramirez as Manny. Additionally, Catherine O’Hara is set to guest star in Season 2.

The sophomore season will see a lineup of directors including Mark Mylod (“Succession,” “The Menu”), Nina Lopez-Corrado (“Perry Mason”), Stephen Williams (“Watchmen”), and Kate Herron (“Loki”). They will join returning directors Peter Hoar, Craig Mazin, and Neil Druckmann.

Adapting the storyline of the video game sequel “The Last of Us Part II,” the second season of HBO’s “The Last of Us” is expected to delve into the expansive, multi-character narrative of the game. It’s anticipated that the sequel’s intricate storytelling will unfold over the course of at least two seasons.

Set two decades after the collapse of modern civilization, “The Last of Us” follows the journey of Joel, a seasoned survivor, who is tasked with escorting Ellie, a 14-year-old girl, out of a tyrannical quarantine zone. What begins as a simple mission evolves into a harrowing odyssey, testing their resilience and forging an unbreakable bond as they navigate the treacherous landscapes of a ravaged America.