A Destiny Fulfilled
Kaitlyn Dever’s path to portraying Abby in the second season of The Last of Us has a sense of destiny about it. While she was initially considered for the role of Ellie, a character now played by Bella Ramsey, fate had other plans. “This was always meant to be in my life,” Dever mused, reflecting on her long-standing connection to the franchise since her meetings with creator Neil Druckmann a decade ago.
From Ellie to Abby
Dever’s journey with The Last of Us began with potential casting as Ellie during the game’s early film adaptation days. Despite not auditioning, her unique relationship with the material was nurtured through discussions and insights shared by Druckmann. As the adaptation evolved from film to television, her role also transformed, fitting her perfectly into the multifaceted figure of Abby.
Embracing a Complex Role
Taking on such a pivotal character required depth and versatility, traits Dever possesses in abundance. “We needed someone who could be both hero and villain,” said co-showrunner Craig Mazin, highlighting Dever’s capability to evoke both empathy and complexity. According to The Hollywood Reporter, it’s this profound nature that makes her an ideal fit for the role, capturing the duality of the character with grace.
A Thrilling Second Season
Season two of the series sees a time leap, showcasing Ellie and Joel settled in a survival community. Abby’s introduction at this juncture adds layers of tension and intrigue, promising a thrilling narrative for fans. With a storyline demanding a delicate balance of emotion and action, Dever stands poised to deliver a performance that resonates deeply with audiences.
Crafting the Future
As Druckmann and Mazin ponder the show’s trajectory, they emphasize a careful approach to storytelling. While the expansive narrative of Part II hints at future seasons, there remains a focus on the current storyline, ensuring it unfolds authentically. “We like to work with an ending in mind,” Druckmann noted, emphasizing the meticulous planning behind each episode.
More to Come
The Last of Us continues to captivate viewers worldwide. With Kaitlyn Dever’s portrayal of Abby, the second season promises to elevate the series to new heights. As Dever steps into this role, it marks both a personal and professional milestone, affirming that some paths are indeed meant to intertwine.
Stay tuned for the debut of season two on April 13, exclusively on HBO and Max.