While HBO’s hit series The Last of Us keeps viewers glued to the screen with its intense drama and terrifying post-apocalyptic setting, it’s the behind-the-scenes moments that reveal the warmth, friendship, and fun that fuel the show’s success.
Whether it’s cast bonding during snowy breaks, taking cheeky naps between scenes, or navigating the quirks of filming in Canada, the stars of The Last of Us show us that surviving the Cordyceps apocalypse isn’t all doom and gloom — at least when the cameras stop rolling.
Pedro Pascal & Kaitlyn Dever: Chilling But Close
Leading man Pedro Pascal — who portrays Joel — and new cast member Kaitlyn Dever, stepping into the role of Abby, recently posed for a chilly but charming photo that quickly made its way across fan pages. Wrapped in winter gear, the pair prove their on-screen tension doesn’t carry over in real life.
Fans of the series will recognize Abby as a key figure in the upcoming seasons — and it’s clear that Dever is already blending in seamlessly with the Last of Us family. Her connection with Pascal off-screen suggests that their complex relationship on-screen is being crafted with trust and collaboration.
Gabriel Luna Bonds With the Infected
Over on the creepier side of set life, Gabriel Luna, who plays Joel’s brother Tommy, wasn’t afraid to get up close and personal with the franchise’s infamous “Infected.” In a hilarious behind-the-scenes photo, Luna can be seen cheesing next to a prosthetic-covered Cordyceps creature — reminding fans that even horror has its light-hearted moments.
The effort that goes into creating the terrifying fungal zombies is immense, and this glimpse behind the scenes highlights the makeup artists, costume designers, and special effects teams that make the show’s nightmare visuals a reality.
Isabela Merced Gets a Lesson in Canadian Lingo
While filming in the frosty regions of Canada, Isabela Merced, who plays Dina — a beloved character from The Last of Us Part II video game — shared a fun observation with fans: in Canada, bathrooms are called “washrooms.” It’s a small but relatable reminder that even during the apocalypse, some things still spark culture shock.
Merced joins the cast in Season 2 and brings a breath of fresh air (and cheeky humor) to the set. Fans are already excited to see how her dynamic with Bella Ramsey’s Ellie plays out on-screen, as their bond is central to the story’s emotional depth.
Bella Ramsey Takes a Power Nap Between Takes
Filming long, emotionally intense days takes its toll, and Bella Ramsey, the powerhouse behind Ellie, isn’t afraid to grab a quick nap in between scenes. In one adorable behind-the-scenes snap, Ramsey is seen snuggled up in full costume, catching some Zs between takes.
The candid photo has fans swooning, especially those familiar with Ramsey’s dedication to the role. From emotional breakdowns to bloody brawls, their performance as Ellie is nothing short of riveting — and a well-earned nap is always welcome.
Pedro Pascal’s Shirtless Scene Sparks a Frenzy
Of course, fans couldn’t help but go wild after catching a glimpse of Pedro Pascal shirtless during one behind-the-scenes moment. The internet’s favorite “daddy” has been turning heads since Season 1, and this time is no exception. Whether it’s in rugged flannels or post-apocalyptic grit, Pascal continues to be a fan favorite — on and off the screen.
A Cast That Clicks On and Off Camera
These behind-the-scenes snapshots reveal the cast’s incredible chemistry, both on-screen and off. While the show is known for its emotional weight and gritty storytelling, the camaraderie behind the camera brings a needed balance to the high-stakes world they inhabit.
Fans are already eagerly anticipating the second season, especially with fresh additions like Kaitlyn Dever and Isabela Merced, who are stepping into critical roles from the original video game storyline.
Photo Gallery: Candid Moments From the Set
From frosty photo ops to fungal foes, our exclusive The Last of Us behind-the-scenes photo gallery gives fans a deeper look into what it’s like to make one of TV’s most ambitious post-apocalyptic dramas.
???? Click through our gallery to see your favorite stars like Pedro Pascal, Bella Ramsey, Gabriel Luna, and more — proving that while the world may have ended in the story, the vibes behind the camera are as alive as ever.
