Eight years have passed since the release of 2013’s The Last of Us. Many would argue it was the PS3’s last great game and possibly the best title released on the platform. It introduced us to fan-favourite characters Joel and Ellie as they struggled to survive the Cordyceps-ridden post-apocalypse. Now HBO are partnering with Sony and Naughty Dog to create a The Last of Us TV show.
With the upcoming series starting to gain momentum, we decided to do some digging. And we’ve compiled a list of the five biggest things you need to know about it so far. It’s still a way off and details are limited. But with so much riding on this show – including the possibility of future game-to-TV adaptions – it’s worth keeping a close eye on it ahead of release. So let’s get into it…
#5 – When will The Last of Us TV show come out?
While a specific date still alludes us, a timeframe has been provided. It was reported this month by The Hollywood Reporter that The Last of Us is likely to premier in 2022. So although we don’t know exactly when, it’s a safe bet that you’ll be tuning in to the first episode next year. Filming began in July 2021 and will conclude in June 2022.
#4 – How much will The Last of Us HBO series cost to make?
HBO’s upcoming The Last of Us TV show will apparently cost an eye-watering $10 million per episode to make. And that’s a lowball estimate. President of IATSE 212 artists union Damian Petti suggested an eight figure sum is accurate and called the show “a monster” (in a good way).
#3 – What will The Last of Us TV show be about?
The TV show will be an adaption of the first game but is likely to mix things up. It’s actually been suggested by writers Neil Druckmann and Craig Mazin that there will be fresh twists and turns. Mazin previously said: “We’re creating anew and we’re also reimagining what is already there to present a different format”. He also mentioned that “the changes that we’re making are designed to fill things out and expand, not to undo, but rather to enhance.” Back in March, The Last of Us creator Neil Druckmann told IGN of the upcoming HBO series’ episodes: “Things sometimes stay pretty close. It’s funny to see my dialogue there from the games in HBO scripts. And sometimes they deviate greatly to much better effect because we are dealing with a different medium”.
#2 – Who will play Joel and Ellie?
They’re two of the most beloved video game characters ever. So who is playing Joel and Ellie in The Last of Us TV show? Pedro Pascal (Game of Thrones, Narcos, The Mandalorian) will play Joel, while Bella Ramsey (Lyanna Mormont in Game of Thrones) will play Ellie.
#1 – How many episodes will there be of The Last of Us TV show?
So far, only one season of The Last of Us has been confirmed. It will consist of 10 episodes, and the show’s future is dependant on the first season’s success. The series won’t be episodic. Essentially that means Joel and Ellie won’t go off on random adventures outside of the series’ main storyline. Writer Craig Mazin confirmed as much: “There’s no episodic nonsense here.”
Are you excited for The Last of Us TV show? Let us know in the comment section below, check out our review of The Last of Us Part II and don’t forget to take a look at our other gaming articles…
