The Last of Us, the hit HBO series based on the critically acclaimed video game franchise developed by Naughty Dog, is gearing up for its highly anticipated second season. Isabela Merced, who plays the role of Dina in the show, recently provided an exciting production update, confirming that filming has officially started.
The Last of Us season 1 introduced viewers to the post-apocalyptic world where Joel (played by Pedro Pascal) and Ellie (played by Bella Ramsey) embark on a dangerous journey across a decimated United States. Season 2 is set to expand the cast with new additions, including Kaitlyn Dever as Abby and Isabela Merced as Dina, both significant characters from the games.
In a recent interview with Deadline, Merced expressed her enthusiasm for the upcoming season. While she didn't disclose any plot details or spoilers, she praised the show's co-creator, Craig Mazin, and hinted at some exciting yet-to-be-announced cast members. Merced stated that 'the stars are truly aligning' and mentioned that she had friends joining the cast who are 'future superstars' and already superstars in her eyes.
Merced's characterization of Dina is expected to play a vital role in the upcoming events. Without revealing too much, Dina serves as a crucial romantic interest for Ellie, and their dynamic is explored in The Last of Us Part II video game. The TV series is likely to delve deeper into this aspect of their relationship and potentially explore the love triangle involving Jesse, another survivor with a romantic history with Dina.
Joining the returning cast members are Catherine O'Hara and Young Mazino, though their roles have yet to be disclosed. O'Hara's addition brings even more excitement to the series. With production only just beginning, it may be some time before any marketing materials or teasers are released. However, Merced's comment suggests that things are progressing well behind the scenes.
The Last of Us TV series is a collaborative effort between Neil Druckmann, one of the original creators of the game, and Craig Mazin, the award-winning creator of HBO's Chernobyl. Set twenty years after a devastating fungal infection decimates humanity and turns them into zombie-like creatures, the story centers around Joel and Ellie's quest for survival and the potential for a cure.
It remains to be seen if the TV adaptation will follow the same time jump as the video games, where Ellie transitions from a 14-year-old to a 19-year-old. However, it makes sense for the exploration of Ellie's romantic interests to become more prominent as she grows older.
Fans of The Last of Us can look forward to another thrilling season as the show continues to captivate audiences with its compelling storyline, complex characters, and the dark yet intriguing post-apocalyptic world created by Naughty Dog. Keep an eye out for more updates as production progresses and we draw closer to the premiere of The Last of Us season 2.
