In the forthcoming second season of HBO’s One of Us, the series adaptation of The Last of Us Part II has made a conspicuous change to its central figure Abby, a decision that sparked fierce reactions among fans. Early promotional material and interviews hinted that Abby would remain a leading figure alongside Ellie and Joel, but her on screen look and approach to the role have been adjusted. Kaitlyn Dever portrays Abby, and producers say this version steers away from the iconically pumped physique seen in the game. Creative lead Neil Druckmann and showrunner Craig Mazin have explained that the TV narrative prioritizes human drama over constant action, aiming for a more intimate, character-driven arc rather than a game-style spectacle. This shift signals a deliberate move toward emotional storytelling and relational tension that fans will notice from the first scenes.
According to Mazin, softening Abby’s physical presence allows the audience to see her from a different vantage point. The portrayal emphasizes spiritual resilience and moral ambiguity, inviting viewers to understand her choices as part of a broader emotional journey. This shift provoked a wave of criticism from fans, many of whom argued that the iconic look should be retained. Yet the writers have stood by their vision, noting that the series is crafted to reflect dramatic stakes and personal evolution rather than replicate every game beat. Druckmann has repeatedly stated that the adaptation is faithful to the core themes while experimenting with tone and pacing to suit television’s storytelling rhythm. The creative team insists the changes are not mere aesthetics but a structural choice to deepen narrative texture and character connections across episodes.
The second season is slated for an April 2025 release on HBO. The key roles of Ellie, Abby and Joel are played by Bella Ramsey, Kaitlyn Dever and Pedro Pascal, respectively, with the core cast reconfirmed for the continuation. The production team stresses that this season leans into relationships and choices, using Abby’s arc to explore loyalty, sacrifice and the costs of violence in a world that has already broken many lives. Viewers can expect a careful balance between character study and suspenseful moments as the narrative threads converge toward emotional payoffs, while the broader world of The Last of Us remains a constant backdrop for tough decisions and intimate moments.
Fans and critics continue to weigh in as the series progresses toward its new chapter. The creative direction invites a broader conversation about how beloved characters evolve across adaptations, and whether changes in appearance or mood alter the story’s message. In the end the team argues that Abby’s evolution serves the larger purpose of exposing inner strength and vulnerability in equal measure, making the season a deeper exploration of humanity amid a perilous, postapocalyptic landscape.