At a Glance
- Season three of The Last of Us will focus on Abby, the character who killed Joel.
- The show is set to air on HBO in 2027.
- Kaitlyn Dever, who portrays Abby, is preparing to lead the new storyline.
Why it matters: The new focus gives fans a deeper look at a controversial character and signals a fresh narrative direction for the franchise.
The upcoming third season of HBO’s The Last of Us will shift the narrative focus to Abby, the character who killed Joel in the second season. Kaitlyn Dever, who plays Abby, has announced that she is preparing to take on a larger role as the show moves forward. The season is expected to premiere sometime in 2027, bringing a fresh perspective to the beloved franchise.
Season 3 Focuses on Abby
The second season ended with Abby hunting Ellie, a twist that mirrored the game’s controversial narrative. The third season will start from Abby’s point of view, offering context and backstory that fans missed. This shift allows the series to explore Abby’s motivations and the events leading to the climax of the second season.
“The fans are really going to like it, I think,” said Dever. “The shifting perspective onto Abby, getting some more context onto her storyline and going back in time with this season. So, I’m very excited for the fans to see it.”
The new angle is expected to deepen the emotional stakes. By showing Abby’s perspective, the show can explore the complexities that made her a polarizing figure. It also aligns with the game’s narrative style, where players experience the story from multiple viewpoints.
Kaitlyn Dever’s Preparation
Dever told the trade that her work on the third season starts very soon. “I’m getting mentally and physically prepped right now. I go up in a couple days, actually, to start prep over there,” she said this week. “I’m so excited to kind of take on a much bigger role in the season.”
Her preparation includes physical training and character study. Dever has emphasized the importance of embodying Abby’s strength and vulnerability. She is also working closely with the writers to shape Abby’s arc.
The actress’s enthusiasm signals a strong commitment to the role. Her preparation schedule indicates that production will begin in the next few months. Fans can expect a more nuanced performance from Dever.
Neil Druckmann’s Departure
Neil Druckmann, who created the game and helped bring the show to life, is stepping away to focus on Naughty Dog video games such as the sci-fi title Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet. The transition raises questions about the show’s creative direction.
The game’s narrative is known for its moral complexity. Druckmann’s influence was central to the series’ tone. His departure could affect future storytelling choices.
However, the show’s core team remains intact. Producers and writers are continuing to develop the script. The series will still carry the original vision that fans recognize.
Production Timeline
Cameras are set to start rolling soon, according to production updates. The schedule places the first day of filming in the next quarter. The crew is assembling the necessary sets and equipment.
A table of key dates illustrates the upcoming milestones:
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Pre-production wraps | March 2025 |
| Principal photography starts | June 2025 |
| Post-production begins | September 2025 |
| Planned premiere | 2027 |
These dates provide a roadmap for the series’ development. The production team is working to meet each deadline.
Fan Expectations
The shift in perspective has generated excitement among the fan community. Many viewers are eager to see Abby’s story unfold. Social media chatter highlights anticipation for new character depth.
Critics have praised the decision to explore a controversial figure. They argue that a fresh viewpoint can enrich the narrative. The series’ success will depend on how well it balances fan expectations with storytelling.
In addition to the narrative shift, the show’s visual style will remain true to the game’s aesthetic. The production design team is committed to authenticity. This consistency helps maintain continuity for longtime fans.
Key Takeaways
- The third season centers on Abby, offering a new narrative lens.
- Kaitlyn Dever is actively preparing for a larger role.
- Neil Druckmann is focusing on new gaming projects.
- Production is on track to begin filming in mid-2025.
- Fans anticipate deeper exploration of Abby’s character.
These elements collectively shape the upcoming season’s direction. The series aims to deliver a compelling story that resonates with both game and television audiences.
Final Thoughts
The shift to Abby’s perspective marks a bold move for the franchise. It reflects a commitment to exploring complex characters. The upcoming season promises fresh storytelling and heightened emotional engagement for viewers.
