Few shows have managed to adapt a video game quite like The Last of Us. With the second season now underway, fans should brace themselves for a dramatic, heartbreaking ride.
In fact, one of the franchise’s most controversial and devastating moments has already arrived, and it’s even left the series’ composer in tears.
The HBO and Max production is capturing a large portion of The Last of Us Part II, the 2020 PlayStation title. While viewers can expect a few narrative adjustments, the show will remain largely faithful to the game’s storyline.
Ever since its release, The Last of Us Part II has divided players because of daring and controversial narrative choices, especially one involving a fan-favorite character. And now the series starring Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey has officially reached that pivotal moment.
The Last of Us Episode 2 Marks a Point of No Return
Before going any further, please be aware that this section delves into one of the key scenes of the latest The Last of Us episode.
Season 2 premiered on April 13, with new episodes available weekly. In episode 2, titled “Through the Valley”and released last Sunday, viewers witnessed one of the story’s most devastating moments: the death of Joel at the hands of Abby.
As Tommy and the residents of Jackson fight off infected Cordyceps hosts, Joel and Dina encounter Abby and her group. It’s during this ambush that Abby (Kaitlyn Dever) carries out her long-awaited revenge.
The final moments show Ellie breaking down over the loss of her father figure, a scene delivered with such emotional force that it stunned even fans who knew it was coming.
Gustavo Santaolalla, the legendary Argentine composer behind the music of both games and the series, took to social media to share his emotional reaction. “I’m crying,” he wrote. Since then, he’s only reposted content referencing the show’s most gut-wrenching moment.
Santaolalla’s Subtle Cameos
Santaolalla’s reaction isn’t surprising given his deep connection to the franchise. Beyond composing the music, he also made a cameo in The Last of Us Part II, where he’s seen playing the banjo in the town of Jackson.
He also appears briefly in Season 2’s first episode. During the New Year’s Eve celebration in Jackson’s church, Santaolalla can be spotted performing on stage with the local band, a small but fitting tribute to his contributions.