The highly anticipated second season of HBO’s The Last of Us will premiere on April 13, 2025.
Early reviews suggest that the show maintains its high quality, with critics praising the performances, emotional depth, and impressive action sequences. Season 2 is expected to cover the first half of “The Last of Us Part II” game over seven episodes.
So much of what made The Last of Us s1 great was the interplay between Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey. What happens when the second season has much less of them together? My review: https://t.co/EdUtV4ncE8
— Alan Sepinwall (@sepinwall) April 7, 2025
Showrunners have confirmed that they will not extend the series beyond the existing source material, much like what happened with “Game of Thrones.”
Despite some concerns about Bella Ramsey playing an older, more aggressive Ellie, early reviews have praised her performance.
I've reviewed The Last of Us Season 2.
It's good! Just not quite as thrilling as its first season or stellar source material.
https://t.co/ttRof7srKO— Simon Cardy (@CardySimon) April 7, 2025
Pedro Pascal, who plays Joel Miller, also delivers a riveting portrayal, showcasing both the character’s hardened survivor side and his persistent tenderness. Critics have noted that Season 2 features a darker tone and more complex themes, exploring the lasting impact of violence and anger.
While this approach may make the main characters appear less likable at times, the series continues to deliver impressive drama and action. Among the new cast members, Isabela Merced’s portrayal of Dina, Ellie’s best friend and eventual love interest, has been praised for bringing a fresh dynamic to the series.
A perfect Pedro Pascal & Bella Ramsey bring the humanity as HBO’s haunting #TheLastOfUs gets even more devastating with Craig Mazin’s humanistic CHERNOBYL sensibility intervening in the story as it sets forth for Seattle. It's great stuff folks
My review: https://t.co/Jp6amhq7p1 pic.twitter.com/qGhmTKP7Rm
— Chase 'Hutch' Hutchinson (@EclecticHutch) April 7, 2025
Early praise for the new season
Catherine O’Hara and Kaitlyn Dever also deliver impressive performances, with Dever’s portrayal of Abby receiving mixed reactions from game fans but winning praise for her acting. Season 2 features jaw-dropping action sequences that rival some of the most epic battles in “Game of Thrones.” The series excels in its spectacle, delivering terrifying, intense action scenes that captivate viewers. However, some critics have noted issues with pacing and point of view.
The season’s structure may feel oddly constructed, with some questions answered quickly while others linger. The reduced focus on Ellie and Joel’s relationship and the underuse of certain characters contribute to a sense of incompleteness. The season ends on a somewhat frustrating note, as it becomes clear that many questions remain unanswered, setting the stage for Season 3.
While the finale may feel abrupt and unsatisfying for some, it effectively sets up anticipation for the next season. Overall, “The Last of Us” Season 2 remains a must-watch, offering a darker and more complex continuation of the acclaimed series. Despite some shortcomings, the powerful performances and compelling narrative continue to make it one of the best adaptations on television.
