Neil Druckmann Discusses Abby's Role in The Last of Us Season 2

In HBO's adaptation of The Last of Us Part 2, Abby, played by Kaitlyn Dever, won't be as physically imposing as in the game, as her role in Season 2 prioritizes drama over game mechanics, according to showrunner and Naughty Dog head Neil Druckmann.

Druckmann and co-showrunner Craig Mazin told Entertainment Weekly that Dever didn’t need to bulk up for the role, as Abby’s physical distinction from Ellie is less critical in the show.

"Kaitlyn was the perfect fit for this role," Druckmann said. "In the game, Ellie and Abby have distinct playstyles—Ellie is agile, while Abby is more like Joel, a physical powerhouse. That’s less emphasized in the show, where the focus is on drama rather than constant action. There’s still action, but the priorities differ."

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Mazin added: "There’s a chance to explore a version of Abby who may be less physically imposing but has a powerful spirit. We’ll dive into what makes her formidable and how that strength shows up, both now and in the future."

The “now and later” likely hints at HBO’s plan to extend The Last of Us Part 2 across multiple seasons, unlike Season 1, which covered the first game in full. Mazin noted that Part 2’s larger story led to Season 2 having a “natural breakpoint” after seven episodes, with Season 3 still unconfirmed.

Abby’s character has sparked significant controversy, with some fans targeting Naughty Dog staff, including Druckmann and actress Laura Bailey, with threats and harassment, even extending to Bailey’s family.

HBO took extra precautions during Season 2’s filming, providing Dever with additional security due to potential backlash. "Some people genuinely hate Abby, a fictional character. Just a reminder: she’s not real," said Isabel Merced, who plays Dina in Season 2.