The video game known as The Last of Us was first released for PlayStation 3 in the summer of 2013. The inclusion of Part I in the title hinted at a video game series that was set up for the release of Part II in 2020. As the video game gained popularity, its fan base increased, leading to the adaptation of a TV series that has unfortunately gained a great deal of negative attention. Its fan base increased, leading to the adaptation of a TV series that has unfortunately gained a great deal of negative attention.
From video game to tv series: Initial reactions
Looking at the evolution of The Last of Us, it is pretty clear that the creators miscalculated how receptive fans would be when releasing this adaptation.
The first season came out in 2023, and fans were split in their approval of the accuracy in terms of casting. Heavy Criticism came out regarding the casting of certain characters. More specifically, the character of Ellie, played by Bella Ramsey.
As someone who watched the gameplay of The Last of Us before watching its adaptation, I did find some discrepancies in the appearance of the main character.
However, I didn’t find it concerning enough to cast criticism on this casting decision. Other fans, unfortunately, felt differently. While many praised her performance as Ellie, others felt that other actresses should have been considered who better fit her description.
As the season continued and more episodes were released, criticism shifted. First, focusing on her appearance, then looking at her ability to act in the show.
While this opinion isn’t shared by the entire fandom, many agree that the producers made a mistake in hiring Bella Ramsey.
On Reddit, many people spoke out about this topic. One user known as Original_Wallaby_531 commented, “She somehow does a worse job than the previous episode. Why did they choose her? She doesn’t look like Ellie.”
While many did express negative feelings towards the show because of this issue, I myself enjoyed the first season. I felt that the emotion of certain scenes that touched on important topics was well portrayed.
Those who agreed with me were left excited for the confirmed release of season 2.
The casting issues continue
Sadly, after watching season two after its release in 2025, I began to understand certain criticisms cast by fans.
My personal criticism began with the hiring of Kaitlyn Denver as Abby. In this, I was not alone. It is true that Bella Ramsey indeed appears slightly different from the video game version of Ellie. However, I didn’t find that this was important to the storyline.
The same cannot be said for the character of Abby. The entire premise of her character centers around her goal of revenge after Joel killed her father.
Her father was the surgeon who was meant to find a cure at the cost of Ellie’s life.
A large part of Abby’s character that us fans, understood was her strength. In the video game, Abby is known for her appearance. She is known as a buff woman who has trained for her goal of avenging her father.
Kaitlyn Denver is the exact opposite in terms of size and strength. Her smaller, more petite frame does not appear to coincide with that of Abby.
While Denver is a well-seasoned actress, her former roles showcase her as more timid. Another opposition to the character of Abby is seen in the video game. Because of this, criticism increased after the release of the second season.
The decline
Looking further at season 2, another critique came about when referencing Dina, the love interest of Ellie. The character played by Isabela Merced.
While many had hoped for better casting for this main character, that was not the sole reason for the fans’ reactions.
According to those who both played the game and watched the series, the writers of the show seemed to have shifted the narrative. Many felt that they changed Dina’s character from the original game version.
TikTok users expressed their opinions in the comments. User @dollirun wrote, “This is not our dina, she would never say this”.
It appears that at the end of season 2, the hate shifted from the actors and more towards the writers and producers.
Sad endings for our beloved characters
While there was a great deal of hate directed at the adaptation, there were many positive aspects as well.
In the first season, the daughter of Joel, played by Nico Parker, was revered for her role as Sarah. Capturing such high emotions during many of her scenes left fans feeling admiration for this young actress.
Another actor that people, including myself, found enjoyable included the character known as Joel. Pedro Pascal played this complex character perfectly. He captured the attention of those who played the game with his ability to bring this character to life.
Unfortunately, these characters that are loved because of their talent all seem to have a similar ending. Sarah, as we all know, was killed off after episode one. Her tragic ending left us reeling for weeks. However, that was nothing compared to what fans knew was meant to come at the beginning of season 2.
For those who watched the game play, Joel’s ending was no surprise. Although speaking for the majority of those who have seen the series, its predictability didn’t lessen the pain.
For those still watching the TV Series, the death of well-liked characters seemed to lessen the show’s appeal.
What the future holds
After the release of these 2 seasons, there was debate over whether or not a third season would make its way to the screen. And as of now, there is confirmation that The Last of Us will continue with another season.
Much of the fandom is left baffled at this information. Especially after Neil Druckmann stated his departure from the series. Instead, handing the reins off to Craig Mazin in favor of directing another game.
Although he claims to have completed his goal in elevating the franchise, many wonder if his reason for leaving has to do with fan opinions. With his decision to leave, criticism has increased, leaving viewers skeptical about the future of this adaptation.
As of now, there is no official release date for season 3, and fans can only speculate about what’s to come.
