The Return of HBO's "The Last of Us": Season 2 Premiere Details

The highly acclaimed HBO series, blending elements of zombie horror with science fiction, is making its much-anticipated return for a second season this weekend. The season promises a thrilling seven-episode arc packed with heart-stopping drama and emotional depth. Season 1, which premiered in early 2023, introduced audiences to a dystopian world where Cordyceps, a parasitic fungus, gains control over human minds, fundamentally altering society. The storyline followed Joel, a smuggler portrayed by Pedro Pascal, as he embarked on a mission to escort Ellie, played by Bella Ramsey, across a devastated landscape to a hospital. Ellie’s immunity to the infection sets her apart as humanity’s beacon of hope. This gripping series is a live-action adaptation of the 2014 video game of the same name. Co-created by Neil Druckmann and Craig Mazin, the series received critical acclaim, bagging eight Emmy awards, and earned a nomination for Outstanding Drama Series. Here’s what you need to know about what’s ahead in Season 2.

“The Last of Us” Season 2 is set to premiere on Sunday, April 13, at 9 p.m. ET/PT on HBO, continuing with new episodes each Sunday until the finale on May 25. This season spans seven episodes. HBO’s description reveals that Season 2 jumps five years forward, depicting Joel and Ellie’s strained relationship as they face an increasingly perilous and unpredictable world. Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey reprise their roles as Joel and Ellie. The cast also includes Gabriel Luna, Rutina Wesley, Kaitlyn Dever, Isabela Merced, Young Mazino, Ariela Barer, Tati Gabrielle, Spencer Lord, Danny Ramirez, and Jeffrey Wright.

HBO has already given the green light for a third season of “The Last of Us,” even before Season 2 hits the screens. However, it’s uncertain if this next season will mark the series’ conclusion. Creators Druckmann and Mazin have hinted at the possibility of extending the series to four seasons.