The highly anticipated second season of *The Last of Us* is set to premiere on April 13, 2025, bringing with it a mix of familiar faces and intriguing new characters. Just as in the first season, major characters from the video games will be introduced, with Kaitlyn Dever stepping into the role of Abby, while new additions like Catherine O'Hara as Gail promise to add fresh depth to the series. To prepare you for the continuation of Joel and Ellie's journey in this gripping post-apocalyptic world, we've put together a comprehensive guide to the cast of Season 2.
The Last of Us Season 2 Cast: Who's New and Coming Back to the HBO Show?
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New Cast for The Last of Us TV Show Season 2
Kaitlyn Dever as Abby
One of the biggest questions surrounding Season 2 was who would portray Abby. HBO answered this by casting Kaitlyn Dever, known for her roles in Booksmart and Justified. Abby, a key character from The Last of Us Part 2, is a skilled soldier with the Fireflies, whose journey of vengeance challenges her black-and-white worldview.
"Our casting process for season two mirrors that of season one: we seek out world-class actors who can capture the essence of the characters from the source material," stated series co-creators Craig Mazin and Neil Druckmann. "Kaitlyn's talent is undeniable, and we're thrilled to have her join Pedro, Bella, and our talented ensemble."
Who Voiced Abby in The Last of Us Part 2 Game? Laura Bailey
Young Mazino as Jesse
Young Mazino, celebrated for his role in Beef, joins the series as Jesse, a community pillar in Jackson, Wyoming. Known for his selflessness, Jesse's leadership in the patrol groups and his past relationship with Dina add depth to his character.
"Young Mazino is an actor who instantly captivates audiences," Mazin and Druckmann commented. "We are fortunate to have him on board and excited for viewers to witness his performance."
Who Voiced Jesse in The Last of Us Part 2 Game? Stephen Chang
Isabella Merced as Dina
Isabella Merced, known from Dora and the Lost City of Gold and Transformers: The Last Knight, will portray Dina, Ellie's partner from Jackson. Dina's evolving relationship with Ellie is central to the story, making her a vital character.
"Dina is a multifaceted character—warm, brilliant, wild, funny, moral, and dangerous," Mazin and Druckmann noted. "Isabela Merced perfectly embodies all these traits."
Who Voiced Dina in The Last of Us Part 2 Game? Shannon Woodward
Catherine O'Hara as Gail
Details about Catherine O'Hara's character, Gail, remain sparse, but she is a new addition to the series, likely serving as Joel's therapist and helping him process his choices from Season 1.
Jeffrey Wright as Isaac
Jeffrey Wright, known for his roles in Westworld and The Batman, will reprise his role as Isaac, the leader of the Washington Liberation Front from The Last of Us Part 2. His character's actions are pivotal to the game's narrative, and fans anticipate his impact on the series.
Who Voiced Isaac in The Last of Us Part 2 Game? Jeffrey Wright
Danny Ramirez as Manny
Danny Ramirez, featured in The Falcon and the Winter Soldier and Top Gun: Maverick, will play Manny Alvarez, a former Firefly and a key member of the Washington Liberation Front. Manny's loyalty and hidden pain make him a compelling addition to Abby's circle.
"A loyal soldier with a sunny disposition that masks deeper wounds and fears of failing his friends," HBO describes Manny.
Who Voiced Manny in The Last of Us Part 2 Game? Alejandro Edda
Ariela Barer as Mel
Ariela Barer, known from Runaways, will play Mel, a medic in the Washington Liberation Front and a former Firefly. Her relationship with Owen and her commitment to saving lives amidst the realities of war highlight her character's complexity.
"A young doctor whose dedication to saving lives is tested by the brutal realities of conflict and tribalism," HBO's description of Mel reads.
Who Voiced Mel in The Last of Us Part 2 Game? Ashly Burch
Tati Gabrielle as Nora
Tati Gabrielle, recognized from Chilling Adventures of Sabrina and Uncharted, will portray Nora, another member of Abby's 'Salt Lake Crew'. As a military medic grappling with her past, Nora adds another layer to the narrative.
"A military medic struggling with the weight of her past actions," the official HBO description of Nora reads.
Who Voiced Nora in The Last of Us Part 2 Game? Chelsea Tavares
Spencer Lord as Owen
Spencer Lord, known for his roles in Family Law and Heartland, will play Owen, a former Firefly turned WLF soldier. His current relationship with Mel and past with Abby make him a crucial character in the story.
"A gentle soul trapped in a warrior’s body, fighting an enemy he refuses to hate," HBO describes Owen.
Who Voiced Owen in The Last of Us Part 2 Game? Patrick Fugit
Joe Pantoliano as Eugene, Robert John Burke as Seth, and Noah Lamanna as Kat
HBO recently announced the addition of six more actors to Season 2, expanding on characters from the games and introducing new ones. Joe Pantoliano, Robert John Burke, and Noah Lamanna will bring to life Eugene, Seth, and Kat, respectively, enhancing the storyline with their expanded roles.
Joe Pantoliano will play Eugene, Dina's pot-smoking friend from the game, who will have a more significant role in the series. “I get excited when I see these opportunities,” said showrunner Neil Druckmann. “Eugene's expanded story will delve deeper into Joel and Ellie’s relationship.”
Robert John Burke will portray Seth, the bar owner from The Last of Us Part 2, and Noah Lamanna will play Kat, Ellie's former girlfriend.
Image Credits: John Pantoliano (Theo Wargo/Getty Images), Robert John Burke (Jim Spellman/FilmMagic), and Noah Lemanna (Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic for HBO)
Alanna Ubach as Hanrahan, Ben Ahlers as Burton, and Hettienne Park as Elise Park
Alanna Ubach, Ben Ahlers, and Hettienne Park join the cast as newly created characters Hanrahan, Burton, and Elise Park, respectively, promising to bring fresh perspectives to the series.
Image Credits: Alanna Ubach (Monica Schipper/Getty Images), Ben Ahlers (Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic for HBO), Hettienne Park (Mark Sagliocco/Getty Images)
Returning Cast for The Last of Us TV Show Season 2
Pedro Pascal as Joel
Pedro Pascal returns as Joel, whose actions in the Season 1 finale—to rescue Ellie from the Fireflies—set the stage for the upcoming season. His decision to lie to Ellie about the Fireflies' failure to find a cure and the ensuing tension will be explored further.
Who Voiced Joel in The Last of Us Part 2 Game? Troy Baker
Bella Ramsey as Ellie
Bella Ramsey reprises her role as Ellie, whose trust in Joel was shaken by his lies at the end of Season 1. Her journey and evolving relationship with Joel will be central to the narrative of Season 2.
Who Voiced Bella in The Last of Us Part 2 Game? Ashley Johnson
Gabriel Luna as Tommy
Gabriel Luna returns as Tommy, Joel's brother and a key figure in The Last of Us Part 2. Last seen in Jackson with his wife Maria, Tommy's role will continue to be significant as the story unfolds.
Who Voiced Tommy in The Last of Us Part 2 Game? Jeffrey Pierce
Rutina Wesley as Maria
Rutina Wesley returns as Maria, the leader of the Jackson community and Tommy's wife. Her insights and leadership will be crucial as the series progresses.
Will Marlene or Tess Appear in Season 2 of The Last of Us?
Merle Dandridge as Marlene
Merle Dandridge's Marlene was killed by Joel in the Season 1 finale, ruling out her appearance in the present timeline of Season 2. However, flashbacks from The Last of Us Part 2 could bring her back.
Anna Torv as Tess
Anna Torv's Tess, a smuggler and close friend of Joel, sacrificed herself in Season 1. While she did not appear in The Last of Us Part 2, flashbacks could explore her past with Joel.
Will Nick Offerman’s Bill and Murray Bartlett’s Frank Return in The Last of Us?
It doesn’t sound like it…
The episode focusing on Bill and Frank, portrayed by Nick Offerman and Murray Bartlett, was a standout in Season 1, earning a rare 10/10 rating from us. Their love story was beautifully depicted, leaving a lasting impression.
“Nick Offerman and Murray Bartlett bring elegance to their roles, showcasing a beautiful side of humanity that underscores what Joel and Ellie are fighting for,” IGN’s Simon Cardy wrote.
Despite hopes for their return in flashbacks or a potential prequel series, co-creator Craig Mazin confirmed that there won't be more Bill and Frank. "Nick was joking about a prequel," Mazin clarified. "We are happy with what we achieved with their episode."
For more insights, explore our analysis of the Season 1 finale, predictions for Season 2, and discussions on whether Joel made the right choice in saving Ellie.
Note: This story was updated on April 8, 2025, to include Catherine O'Hara (Gail) and Jeffrey Wright (Isaac).
