Which HBO series follows Joel and Ellie after a fungal pandemic?
Quick answer
The Last of Us is the HBO series that follows Joel and Ellie as they cross a ruined United States after a fungal pandemic turns most people into infected creatures. Pedro Pascal plays Joel and Bella Ramsey plays Ellie. It’s based on the 2013 video game by Naughty Dog and premiered in January 2023.
Key facts
- Network
- HBO
- Premiered
- January 15, 2023
- Creators
- Craig Mazin and Neil Druckmann
- Based on
- The Last of Us video game (2013)
The story
Twenty years after a fungal outbreak collapsed civilization, smuggler Joel, who lost his daughter on the first day of the outbreak, is hired to escort 14-year-old Ellie across the country. Ellie is immune to the infection, and her immunity could be the key to a cure. As they travel, the two form a deep, father–daughter bond.
Main cast
| Character | Actor |
|---|---|
| Joel Miller | Pedro Pascal |
| Ellie Williams | Bella Ramsey |
| Tommy Miller | Gabriel Luna |
| Abby (season 2) | Kaitlyn Dever |
Is the fungus real?
The infection is based on Ophiocordyceps, real fungi that infect insects, especially ants. The fungus takes control of an ant’s behavior, makes it climb a plant, then grows out of its body to release spores. It can’t infect humans; the show imagines a version that adapts to warmer temperatures. Learn more in what the study of fungi is called.
Seasons
| Season | Year | Covers |
|---|---|---|
| Season 1 | 2023 | The first game |
| Season 2 | 2025 | Part of The Last of Us Part II |
| Season 3 | Announced | Continues Part II |
Awards
Season 1 won eight Emmy Awards, including for guest actors Nick Offerman and Storm Reid. Its third episode, “Long, Long Time,” was widely praised as one of the best TV episodes of the year.
From game to screen
Video-game adaptations had a poor track record, but The Last of Us was a hit with critics and audiences. The game’s co-creator, Neil Druckmann, co-wrote the show with Craig Mazin, creator of Chernobyl.
For another HBO drama, see what Succession is about. Pedro Pascal also played Oberyn Martell in a famous fantasy series; see which show features Westeros.
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