Episode 2 of HBO’s The Last of Us Season 2 has stunned fans with the brutal death of Joel, portrayed by Pedro Pascal. The emotional and violent scene, where Abby (played by Kaitlyn Dever) kills Joel in front of Ellie (Bella Ramsey), marks a defining moment in the storyline — and introduces some bold changes from the original video game.
The HBO adaptation continues to generate massive buzz for its intense character arcs and cinematic storytelling. With Joel’s death now confirmed on-screen, fans are examining how the show handled this pivotal event compared to the game and what it signals for the rest of the season.
Abby’s Revenge and the Brutal Reality of Joel’s Fate
In Episode 2, titled Fracture, viewers witness Abby’s calculated and merciless act of vengeance as she confronts Joel, leading to his shocking and bloody end. Her motivations, rooted in the fallout from Joel’s decision at the end of Season 1, mirror the emotional complexity that The Last of Us Part II explored in the game.
Kaitlyn Dever’s portrayal of Abby adds new layers of intensity and emotional depth to a character that has long divided fans. Her entrance into the series was sudden, shocking, and unforgettable.
How the HBO Show Differs From the Game
While the HBO series stays loyal to the source material in many ways, it also introduces critical differences in pacing, character interaction, and visual storytelling. One notable change is the amount of time spent building the relationship between Joel and Ellie before the tragedy strikes.
In the game, Joel’s death happens quickly. In the series, the creators choose to draw it out, creating a more emotionally weighted experience. This slower unraveling allows viewers to feel the fear, shock, and heartbreak that Ellie endures.
Creators Craig Mazin and Neil Druckmann Explain the Approach
In a behind-the-scenes interview, The Last of Us co-creators Craig Mazin and Neil Druckmann explained why they chose to expand the narrative around Joel’s death:
“We wanted the audience to feel what Ellie feels — confusion, betrayal, and utter grief. Making this moment hit harder was a deliberate choice to deepen the impact,” said Mazin.
Druckmann added that deviating slightly from the game allowed for richer storytelling without losing the emotional truth that defined the original experience.
Ellie’s Reaction Sets the Stage for a Darker Journey
As Joel dies in front of her, Ellie’s reaction is raw, gut-wrenching, and unforgettable. Bella Ramsey delivers a powerful performance filled with rage and sorrow, capturing the moment that will drive the rest of the season’s narrative.
Ellie’s grief quickly transforms into a thirst for revenge, suggesting that her journey through Season 2 will mirror — and possibly expand on — the emotionally driven plot of The Last of Us Part II.
Why Joel’s Death Was Necessary for the Story
Though heartbreaking, Joel’s death is crucial to the themes of The Last of Us. It challenges the viewer to grapple with questions of justice, vengeance, and the cost of survival in a broken world. It also marks a turning point where Ellie steps fully into the spotlight, driven by loss and shaped by the harshness of her world.
This isn’t just about losing a character — it’s about igniting the next phase of a deeply human story.
Fan Reactions Flood Social Media
Within minutes of the episode airing, social media platforms were overwhelmed with reactions. Fans expressed shock, heartbreak, and admiration for the bold storytelling.
Trending topics included #JoelMiller, #TheLastOfUsHBO, and #AbbyKillsJoel as debates flared about the character’s fate and the show's faithfulness to the game.
Some viewers called the episode a masterpiece, while others struggled with the emotional weight of the scene. Regardless of opinion, one thing is clear — the series has sparked a passionate conversation.
What Comes Next in The Last of Us Season 2
With Joel gone, Season 2 pivots to focus on Ellie’s journey. Future episodes are expected to introduce more characters, explore Abby’s backstory, and navigate the blurred moral lines that define the show.
As Ellie hunts for justice and Abby wrestles with her own trauma, fans can expect a season full of emotional twists, intense action, and profound storytelling.
Final Thoughts
The Last of Us has once again proven it is more than a post-apocalyptic thriller — it’s a deeply human drama about loss, love, and the choices we make when the world falls apart.
Joel’s death in Season 2 Episode 2 is a turning point that reshapes the story, and the HBO series has handled it with masterful care and emotional honesty. As we move deeper into the season, the ripples of this moment will be felt in every decision and every step Ellie takes.
Tune in next week for Episode 3, exclusively on HBO and Max. For updates, analysis, and character deep-dives, follow our continuing coverage of The Last of Us Season 2.