In a heartbreaking twist that fans of the video game saw coming — but still weren’t ready for — The Last of Us Season 2, Episode 2 delivered an emotional gut punch: Joel is dead.
⚠️ Major Spoilers Ahead! If you haven’t watched the latest episode yet, stop scrolling now.
Joel’s Fate Sealed by Abby’s Brutal Revenge
The emotional episode ended with Joel (Pedro Pascal) being savagely beaten to death by Abby, portrayed by Kaitlyn Dever, in a scene that mirrors the dramatic events from The Last of Us Part II video game. Though Pascal knew it was coming, the reality of filming the character’s exit left him—and the rest of the cast—devastated.
“I’m still in denial,” Pedro told Entertainment Weekly. “You build these deep relationships with the people around you, and then suddenly… you’re no longer Joel on that set. It’s tough.”
Behind the Blood and Bruises: Raw Emotion on Set
Pedro revealed that filming the death scene was emotionally overwhelming for the entire crew. Walking onto set in bloody makeup, he said people weren’t grossed out — they were heartbroken.
Even Bella Ramsey, who plays Ellie, admitted she “sobbed her little heart out” when reading the script — despite knowing the story’s trajectory. Joel and Ellie’s bond had become the emotional anchor of the show, and his loss has shaken both the characters and the audience.
From Violence to Friendship: The Abby Twist
Ironically, despite Abby’s on-screen brutality, Pascal described his real-life first meeting with Kaitlyn Dever as surprisingly warm.
“You shoot this violent, traumatic scene, and it weirdly creates a real bond,” Pedro shared.
What’s Next for Ellie?
With Joel gone, Ellie is now forced to navigate the dangers of this post-apocalyptic world alone, marking a major shift in the series’ tone and direction. The loss leaves a huge emotional void — not just for Ellie, but for fans who’ve grown attached to the duo.
