HBO’s The Last of Us has cemented its place as a cultural juggernaut, blending heart-wrenching storytelling with a post-apocalyptic world that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. With its second season earning a staggering 16 Emmy nominations, the series continues to break new ground, not only for its gripping narrative but also for its historic achievements in television. At the center of this phenomenon is Bella Ramsey, the non-binary actor who portrays Ellie, and whose performance has earned them a place in Emmy history. Meanwhile, the departure of co-creator Neil Druckmann from the show’s creative team has sparked intrigue and speculation about the future of The Last of Us Season 3. In a recent interview on the Variety Awards Circuit Podcast, Ramsey opened up about their role, Druckmann’s exit, and the weight of making television history.

The second season of The Last of Us, which premiered in April 2025, has been a critical darling despite divisive fan reactions. Adapted from Naughty Dog’s acclaimed video game franchise, the series follows Joel (Pedro Pascal) and Ellie as they navigate a ravaged United States. Season 2, based on The Last of Us Part II, shifts focus to a new chapter in Jackson, Wyoming, introducing characters like Dina (Isabela Merced) and Jesse (Young Mazino), while setting the stage for Abby (Kaitlyn Dever), who will take center stage in Season 3. The show’s ability to balance emotional depth with intense action has earned it a loyal fanbase and critical acclaim, culminating in a total of 40 Emmy nominations across its first two seasons.

Bella Ramsey’s performance as Ellie has been a cornerstone of the series’ success. At just 21 years old, Ramsey made history as the first openly non-binary actor to receive multiple Emmy nominations, earning a nod for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series for Season 2. This milestone places them among the youngest two-time nominees in the category, a testament to their raw talent and ability to embody Ellie’s complex journey. Reflecting on their nomination, Ramsey shared a moment of connection with co-star Carrie Coon, who was also nominated for her role in The White Lotus. “It was really lovely to be nominated with someone else while you’re working together, it felt like a really nice way of it happening,” Ramsey said during the podcast. The two actors, who were filming the upcoming movie Harmonia in Vancouver, celebrated their shared achievement, highlighting the camaraderie that fuels their craft.

Yet, the buzz around The Last of Us extends beyond awards season. The announcement of Neil Druckmann’s departure from the series has sent ripples through the fanbase. Druckmann, who co-created the video game and served as co-showrunner, writer, and director for the HBO adaptation, revealed he is stepping away to focus on his next project, Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet, at Naughty Dog. His exit marks a significant shift for the series, as his vision has been integral to its game-accurate storytelling. Fans have expressed concern over how the show will maintain its fidelity to the source material without him, but Ramsey remains optimistic. “The world of The Last of Us is his creation, and so his voice and creative input. It doesn’t just go away in Season 3 because he’s not as actively involved. It will always be his,” they said, emphasizing that Druckmann’s influence will linger in the show’s DNA.

Craig Mazin, the remaining showrunner and creator of Chernobyl, now shoulders the responsibility of steering The Last of Us into its third season. Mazin’s track record suggests he’s more than capable, but the absence of Druckmann and co-writer Halley Gross, who also left the writers’ room, raises questions about the show’s future direction. Season 3 is expected to focus on Abby, a character whose polarizing arc in The Last of Us Part II sparked intense debate among gamers. How Mazin will adapt this narrative for television remains a mystery, but Ramsey’s confidence in the established plan offers reassurance. “He’ll definitely be missed on set,” Ramsey noted, acknowledging Druckmann’s absence while affirming that the show’s foundation is strong enough to endure.

The Emmy nominations for Season 2 underscore the series’ technical and artistic prowess. In addition to Ramsey and Pedro Pascal’s acting nods, the show earned recognition in categories like Outstanding Drama Series, Outstanding Casting, and Outstanding Contemporary Makeup. However, some fans were surprised by notable snubs, particularly for directors Mark Mylod and Neil Druckmann, whose episodes were overlooked despite their emotional impact. The episode “Through The Valley,” directed by Mylod and written by Mazin, depicted Joel’s death—a moment that left viewers reeling—but failed to secure nominations in directing or writing. Despite these omissions, the series’ 16 nominations reflect its enduring influence and ability to resonate with audiences and critics alike.

Ramsey’s journey with The Last of Us has been transformative, both personally and professionally. Their portrayal of Ellie has earned widespread praise for its authenticity and emotional depth, capturing the character’s resilience and vulnerability. Off-screen, Ramsey has also been a vocal advocate for inclusivity, signing an open letter in 2023 alongside over 400 film and television professionals in support of trans, non-binary, and intersex communities. Their historic Emmy nominations further highlight the importance of representation in media, sparking conversations about gendered award categories. While some have critiqued the placement of Ramsey in the “actress” category, they’ve expressed a pragmatic view, focusing on the opportunity to tell meaningful stories.

As The Last of Us prepares for its third season, anticipation is building for how the show will tackle Abby’s story and expand the world of the games. The series has already proven its ability to adapt complex narratives while introducing new characters, such as Catherine O’Hara as Joel’s therapist Gail. With Mazin at the helm and Ramsey’s unwavering commitment to Ellie, the show is poised to maintain its emotional and visual intensity. Druckmann’s departure may mark the end of an era, but it also opens the door for new creative possibilities, ensuring that The Last of Us remains a must-watch series.

For fans eager to dive deeper into Ramsey’s reflections and the future of The Last of Us, the Variety Awards Circuit Podcast offers a candid look at the show’s impact and the challenges of filming its emotionally charged scenes. As the series continues to break barriers—both in storytelling and representation—it’s clear that The Last of Us is more than just a video game adaptation. It’s a cultural milestone that continues to captivate, challenge, and inspire.