By Asay Kush | April 21, 2025
Spoiler Alert: This blog contains major plot details from Season 2 of HBO’s The Last of Us.
A Shocking Goodbye to Joel — But Is It Really Over?
Season 2 wastes no time diving into heartbreak. By Episode 2, we witness the brutal death of one of the show’s most iconic characters—Joel (Pedro Pascal). Killed by Abby (Kaitlyn Dever), who seeks revenge for the death of her father (the Firefly surgeon Joel killed in Season 1), Joel’s end is both violent and deeply emotional.
The scene is devastating. Joel is ambushed, shot, and beaten, as Ellie (Bella Ramsey) arrives just in time to witness his final moments. It mirrors the game but delivers even more emotional weight on screen. Still, creators Craig Mazin and Neil Druckmann assure us this isn’t the last we’ll see of him. Through flashbacks, we’ll revisit Joel and Ellie’s evolving bond during the five-year time gap—proving that while Joel’s life has ended, his legacy hasn’t.
Eugene: A Quiet Name That Speaks Volumes
Another surprise emotional blow comes in the form of Eugene—a character never shown in the games but introduced meaningfully in the series. A former Firefly, a marijuana grower, and once a close friend of Joel, Eugene is revealed to have been killed by Joel himself.
While the full story remains unclear, hints suggest Eugene was infected, and Joel may have had no choice. Even so, the pain left behind is undeniable. In a raw, emotional scene, Eugene’s widow, Gail (Catherine O’Hara), says, “I hate you for it… and I know I should forgive you. But I can’t.” It’s one of the most human and haunting moments of the season.
A Glimmer of Hope: Baby Benjamin
Amid the darkness, Season 2 offers a flicker of hope through an unexpected addition—Maria and Tommy’s baby boy, Benjamin. This original character doesn’t exist in the games, but his presence adds a touching layer to the show.
In a quiet, heartwarming scene, Joel bonds with his young nephew, revealing a softer, more nurturing side of him we haven’t seen since Sarah. It’s a fleeting but powerful reminder that even in a broken world, life goes on.
Final Thoughts: Loss, Legacy & Light
Season 2 of The Last of Us isn’t just about death—it’s about the scars we carry and the love that endures. Joel’s death reshapes Ellie. Eugene’s story casts new shadows on Joel’s past. And Benjamin reminds us that even amid ruin, there’s still something worth holding on to.
This season doesn’t just ask how we survive—it asks how we move f
orward when the past refuses to let go.