April 21, 2025 HBOs The Last of Us has taken fans on an emotional roller coaster since its debut, but no moment has hit harder than the shocking death of Pedro Pascals character, Joel, in the second episode of Season 2. In a heartstopping sequence, Joel meets his tragic end at the hands of Abby, a new character portrayed by Kaitlyn Dever. This moment marks a pivotal shift in the storyline and sets the stage for the next phase of the shows narrative.
A HeartWrenching Moment
Joels death comes as a major shock to viewers, especially for those who are unfamiliar with the original 2020 video game The Last of Us Part II, on which the series is based. In this episode, aptly titled Through the Valley, the tension between Joel and Abby reaches its boiling point. Abby, whose father was killed by Joel in the first seasons dramatic finale, has spent years seeking revenge. Her pursuit of Joel culminates in a brutal confrontation that ends with Joels life.
The death scene is both gutwrenching and cinematic, capturing the horror of the moment with remarkable intensity. After a violent struggle, Abby delivers the fatal blow by stabbing Joel in the neck with a broken golf club, a moment that leaves both Ellie Bella Ramsey and the audience in utter shock.
Behind the Scenes: Pascals Perspective
Pedro Pascal, who has portrayed Joel with emotional depth throughout the series, knew from the start that his characters time would be limited. During an interview with Entertainment Weekly, Pascal discussed how he approached the role, acknowledging the bittersweet nature of his departure. It was always clear that Joels death was a necessary part of the story, he said. But that doesnt make it any easier to say goodbye to a character who has become so beloved.
Despite the heartbreak, Pascal expressed respect for the shows commitment to staying true to the games narrative. This faithful adaptation was important not only for longtime fans but also for introducing new viewers to the emotional stakes of the The Last of Us universe.
A Turning Point for Ellie
Joels death serves as a catalyst for the rest of the series, propelling Ellie into the forefront of the narrative. Bella Ramsey, who plays Ellie, shared her emotional reaction to reading about Joels death in the script, revealing that it brought her to tears. Ellie has lost the one person she trusted, the one person who kept her safe. Now, she has to face the world on her own, Ramsey explained.
This shift in focus will undoubtedly deepen Ellies character arc, as she grapples with grief, rage, and survival in a world that has already taken so much from her.
A Brutal Reminder of the Storys Dark Themes
The creative team behind The Last of Us has always emphasized that the series is about more than just survival. Its about the emotional and moral complexities of human nature, and Joels death underscores that theme. Craig Mazin, the shows cocreator, explained that the decision to depict such a shocking and violent moment in Episode 2 wasnt made to merely shock the audience. Instead, it was about staying true to the games dark and unpredictable narrative, which consistently challenges its characters with harsh realities and moral dilemmas.
Joels death is not just a plot twist, but a necessary turning point in the emotional journey of the characters, Mazin said. We wanted to ensure that it felt authentic to the world weve built and to the relationships that have been established.
The Road Ahead: Whats Next for The Last of Us?
With Joel gone, the future of The Last of Us Season 2 is wide open. Abby, the character responsible for his death, is now positioned as a central figure. The shows next episodes will likely delve deeper into her backstory and motivations, giving viewers a more nuanced understanding of her role in the story. This will undoubtedly be a divisive move, as Abbys actions will force fans to question the nature of vengeance, justice, and forgiveness in this postapocalyptic world.
As for Ellie, her journey is far from over. In the wake of her loss, Ellies path forward will be filled with complex choices and emotional battles, making the stakes higher than ever. The impact of Joels death will reverberate through every decision she makes, and viewers can expect an even more intense and emotionally charged season moving forward.
A Moment That Will Define the Series
Joels death in The Last of Us Season 2 is more than just a shocking plot development. It is a moment that encapsulates the series core themes of love, loss, and the human cost of survival. As the series continues to unfold, this pivotal moment will undoubtedly remain one of the most talkedabout scenes of 2025, shaping the trajectory of the show and the relationships between its central characters.
With so many questions left unanswered, fans are eager to see how the show will continue to explore the emotional fallout from Joels death. One thing is certain: The Last of Us has once again proved its ability to deliver a story that is both heartbreaking and unforgettable.