The Last of Us Season 2 has stumbled into a storm of controversy, leaving fans and casual viewers alike scratching their heads. After a record-breaking first season that captivated audiences with its gripping post-apocalyptic tale, HBO’s adaptation of the beloved PlayStation game was poised to dominate television once again. Yet, viewership numbers tell a different story—a sharp decline that has sparked heated debates across social media and beyond. What went wrong with this Emmy-winning sensation, and why are fans turning away despite glowing reviews from critics?
The heart of the issue lies in a bold narrative shift that has divided audiences. Season 1 thrived on the emotional bond between Joel, the rugged smuggler played by Pedro Pascal, and Ellie, the immune teenager portrayed by Bella Ramsey. Their journey through a fungal-ravaged world was a masterclass in storytelling, blending heart-wrenching moments with pulse-pounding action. But Season 2 takes a daring leap, one that many viewers weren’t ready for. Early in the season, Joel meets a brutal end at the hands of Abby, a new character introduced with a vengeance-driven backstory. This shocking twist, faithful to The Last of Us Part II video game, sent ripples of discontent through the fanbase.
For many, Joel’s death wasn’t just a plot point—it was a betrayal. Fans who grew to love his protective, fatherly presence felt robbed of the dynamic that made the show special. Social media platforms like Facebook lit up with reactions, from heartbroken memes to outright declarations of abandoning the series. The decision to pivot the story toward Ellie’s quest for revenge, coupled with a more ruthless portrayal of her character, left some viewers alienated. Ellie’s arc, while intense and emotionally raw, lacks the warmth of her Season 1 relationship with Joel, making it harder for casual audiences to stay invested.
Adding fuel to the fire is the introduction of Abby, played by Kaitlyn Dever. The showrunners have leaned heavily into her character, positioning her as a complex figure with her own motivations. Abby’s story is meant to challenge viewers’ perspectives, much like the game did, but the execution has fallen flat for many. Critics praise her nuanced portrayal, yet fans argue the show’s attempt to build sympathy for her feels forced, especially so soon after Joel’s demise. The hype surrounding Abby, seemingly designed to set up Season 3, has been met with skepticism, with some calling it a desperate bid to salvage a faltering narrative.
Comparisons to Game of Thrones have surfaced, but they only highlight the missteps. While Game of Thrones shocked audiences with major character deaths, it maintained a sprawling ensemble cast that kept viewers hooked. The Last of Us, by contrast, relies heavily on its core duo, and losing Joel so early feels like a gamble that hasn’t paid off. Unlike the fantasy epic, which balanced shocks with intrigue, Season 2’s focus on revenge and moral ambiguity can feel unrelenting, leaving little room for the hope that defined its predecessor.
The disconnect between critics and audiences adds another layer of intrigue. Season 2 boasts a 92% Fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes, down slightly from Season 1’s 96%, but audience scores tell a starkly different story—plummeting to 47% on Rotten Tomatoes and 3.9 on Metacritic. This gap suggests a cultural tug-of-war: critics celebrate the show’s bold choices and technical brilliance, while viewers crave the emotional resonance of the first season. Some speculate that upcoming awards season wins could frame this backlash as a “misunderstood masterpiece,” potentially dismissing the concerns of everyday fans.
So, what’s next for The Last of Us? The Season 2 finale’s cliffhanger has set the stage for an Abby-centric Season 3, but regaining viewer trust will be an uphill battle. HBO’s challenge is clear: can they recapture the magic that made the show a phenomenon, or will they double down on a vision that risks alienating more fans? As the debate rages on, one thing is certain—this isn’t the last we’ll hear from this divisive saga. Share your thoughts: are you still watching, or has Season 2 lost you?
