HBO has officially announced that Kaitlyn Dever is playing Abby in Season 2 of The Last of Us. This was previously rumored, but it’s now confirmed just as production on Season 2 is set to begin in mid-February.
Abby is a pivotal character in Naughty Dog’s The Last of Us: Part II, and she’s expected to play a similarly significant role in the TV adaptation. Laura Bailey played Abby in the video game, and she has spoken about the death threats and other hateful messages she received.
Dever, known for her roles in Booksmart and No One Will Save You, was at one point connected to the role of Ellie in The Last of Us, and The Hollywood Reporter said she might have even auditioned for the part. However, Bella Ramsey landed the role opposite Pedro Pascal as Joel.
“Our casting process for Season 2 has been identical to Season 1: we look for world-class actors who embody the souls of the characters in the source material,” showrunners Craig Mazin and Neil Druckmann said in a statement to THR. “Nothing matters more than talent, and we’re thrilled to have an acclaimed performer like Kaitlyn join Pedro [Pascal], Bella, and the rest of our family.”
Some people thought they saw Abby in The Last of Us Season 1 finale, but Naughty Dog’s Neil Druckmann shot down this fan rumor as being false.
Pascal recently broke his arm, but the actor is having surgery soon and says he will be ready to go when filming on Season 2 begins in February. The second season is currently scheduled to premiere in 2025.
