Could There Be A The Last Of Us Season 4? Here’s Why Craig Mazin Says It’s Essential

Could There Be A The Last Of Us Season 4? Fans of HBO’s The Last of Us are buzzing with anticipation as showrunner Craig Mazin has hinted that the series may require a fourth season to fully tell the story of the second game.

With the show’s massive success and critical acclaim, Mazin’s comments have sparked curiosity about the narrative’s scope and whether the adaptation can stay true to its source material.

This article dives into everything Mazin has said about the need for four seasons, exploring the reasons behind this decision and what it means for the future of the series.

Why Does Mazin Believe Four Seasons Are Necessary?

Craig Mazin, the mastermind behind HBO’s The Last of Us, has been vocal about the complexity of adapting The Last of Us Part II. In a 2024 interview with Deadline, he revealed that the second game’s story is so expansive that it cannot be contained within two seasons.

“The story material that we’re dealing with from the second game is much bigger than the first,” Mazin explained, emphasizing the need for additional seasons to do justice to the narrative’s depth. Posts on X from June 2024 echoed this sentiment, with outlets like

@DiscussingFilm and @CultureCrave reporting Mazin’s suggestion that the series could stretch to four seasons.

The second game’s intricate plot, multiple character arcs, and emotional weight require careful pacing. Mazin has stressed that rushing the story would compromise its impact, a concern shared by fans who cherish the game’s storytelling. By spreading the narrative across Seasons 2, 3, and potentially 4, the show aims to preserve the game’s essence while enhancing it for television.

What Challenges Does Adapting The Last of Us Part II Present?

Adapting The Last of Us Part II is no small feat. The game is known for its polarizing choices, lengthy runtime, and layered themes of revenge, loss, and redemption. Mazin, in a May 2025 Collider interview, underscored that “there’s no way to complete this narrative in a third season.”

He suggested that a fourth season is “the most likely outcome” to wrap up the story, a statement amplified by X posts from @screentime and @IGN.

The challenge lies in balancing fidelity to the source material with the demands of a TV format. The game’s non-linear storytelling and extensive cast require significant screen time, which a single season—or even two—cannot accommodate. Mazin’s commitment to avoiding a rushed conclusion reflects his respect for the fans and the story’s emotional stakes.

Will The Show Go Beyond the Source Material?

One burning question among fans is whether The Last of Us will extend beyond the events of The Last of Us Part II. Mazin has been clear about his stance. In a 2024 Deadline interview, he stated, “There’s no world where I would want our show to go beyond the source material.”

This was reiterated in X posts by @CultureCrave, noting Mazin’s excitement for a potential third game but his intent to stick to the existing games for the show.

While Mazin acknowledges the possibility of a third game, he’s focused on completing the story of the second game within the series.

This approach ensures that the show remains a faithful adaptation, avoiding the pitfalls of diverging too far from the games, as some adaptations have done.

How Are Fans Reacting to the Four-Season Plan?

The prospect of a fourth season has generated mixed reactions. On X, fans have expressed both excitement and skepticism.

Some praise Mazin’s dedication to a thorough adaptation, with posts like @nacaomarvell and @pressstartexe highlighting the need for four seasons to capture the game’s scope. Others worry about pacing, fearing that stretching the story could dilute its intensity.

Despite these concerns, the consensus leans toward trust in Mazin’s vision. His track record with Chernobyl and the first season of The Last of Us has earned him goodwill, and HBO’s support suggests confidence in his plan. The show’s ability to “earn its keep,” as Mazin put it in a May 2025 IGN interview, will likely determine whether Season 4 becomes a reality.

What’s Next for The Last of Us?

As The Last of Us gears up for its second season, set to premiere in 2025, the question of a fourth season looms large. Mazin’s comments indicate that Seasons 2 and 3 will cover significant portions of The Last of Us Part II, with Season 4 potentially serving as the finale. HBO has yet to officially confirm a fourth season, but Mazin’s optimism and the show’s popularity make it a strong possibility.

For now, fans can look forward to Season 2, which promises to introduce key characters and moments from the second game. Mazin’s commitment to a faithful yet expansive adaptation keeps the series poised for success, ensuring that the story of Joel and Ellie reaches its full potential.

Some Closing Thoughts:

Craig Mazin’s vision for The Last of Us points to a four-season arc that honors the depth of The Last of Us Part II. By prioritizing storytelling over expediency, Mazin aims to deliver a series that resonates with fans of the games and newcomers alike.

As the show continues to captivate audiences, the possibility of a fourth season feels not just likely but essential.

Stay tuned for updates, and let us know your thoughts on the future of The Last of Us!