Kaitlyn Dever to Lead The Last of Us Season 3: What Fans Need to Know

The Last of Us Season 3 is set to take HBO’s acclaimed series in a bold new direction, with Kaitlyn Dever officially confirmed as the lead, stepping into the spotlight as Abby.

Following the divisive events of Season 2, this announcement, made by co-creators Neil Druckmann and Craig Mazin, has sparked excitement and debate among fans.

Here’s everything we know about Dever’s starring role, the narrative shift, and what to expect from the upcoming season, based on verified reports from trusted sources.

Who Is Kaitlyn Dever Playing in The Last of Us Season 3?

Kaitlyn Dever portrays Abby Anderson, a polarizing character introduced in The Last of Us Season 2. Abby, known for her brutal killing of Joel (Pedro Pascal), is a complex figure driven by revenge.

In Season 3, the narrative will pivot to focus on Abby’s perspective, mirroring the structure of The Last of Us Part II video game. Druckmann confirmed this shift during an Emmys FYC panel, stating, “Season 3 is going to be starring — spoiler alert — Kaitlyn.”

Dever, who appeared virtually from Australia, expressed confidence in the role despite its controversy, citing the support of Mazin and Druckmann.

Abby’s arc is expected to explore her three days in Seattle, delving into her motivations, relationships, and the fallout from Joel’s death. This shift promises a deeper look at her backstory, particularly her connection to the Firefly doctor killed by Joel, which fueled her vengeance.

Fans of the game anticipated this focus, but for show-only viewers, it’s a surprising change from Ellie’s (Bella Ramsey) dominance in prior seasons.

Why Is Abby’s Role in The Last of Us Season 3 Controversial?

Abby’s character has long been divisive, especially among gamers, due to her actions in The Last of Us Part II. Her killing of Joel sparked significant backlash, and Season 2’s depiction of this event reignited debates.

Dever herself acknowledged the controversy, saying, “My introduction to this story is not great. People might not like me, and I have to put that in a box somewhere else and do my job.” Despite this, she embraced the role, finding it therapeutic, especially after the recent loss of her mother.

Showrunners Mazin and Druckmann defend Abby’s centrality, with Mazin asserting, “Abby is the hero of her story.” This perspective aims to humanize Abby, exploring themes of vengeance, redemption, and empathy.

However, Season 2’s plummeting ratings and a 38% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes suggest some fans may resist this shift. Dever’s performance, praised for its emotional depth, could sway opinions in The Last of Us Season 3.

What Can Fans Expect from The Last of Us Season 3’s Story?

The Last of Us Season 3 will adopt a “wetter” tone, described by Druckmann as “more of a water season than a fire season,” hinting at a shift from the fiery revenge of Season 2 to a more reflective narrative.

Mazin echoed this, calling it “a wetter season than a hotter season.” Reports indicate the season will cover Abby’s Seattle journey, including her conflicts with the Washington Liberation Front (WLF) and Seraphites, and her bond with new characters like Lev.

While Abby takes center stage, Ellie (Bella Ramsey) and other characters, including Dina (Isabela Merced), will remain part of the story. Mazin teased that even characters presumed dead, like Joel, might appear, possibly in flashbacks. The season is expected to be “bigger” and “crazier” than Season 2, with Dever hinting at intense developments, though she noted Mazin is still writing the scripts.

When Will The Last of Us Season 3 Begin Filming and Release?

Production details for The Last of Us Season 3 are still emerging. Dever debunked rumors of a summer 2025 shoot, stating that Mazin is still crafting the season. However, some reports suggest filming could start in summer 2025, with a potential release in 2027.

The delay reflects the meticulous approach to adapting the game’s complex narrative, with Mazin hinting that a fourth season may be needed to complete the story.

The Last of Us Season 3’s sets are expected to be “extensive and meticulous,” potentially reflecting Seattle’s rain-soaked environment. Fans eager for updates should note that HBO’s creative freedom has allowed bold choices, like centering Abby, which Druckmann admitted surprised him.

How Are Fans Reacting to Kaitlyn Dever Leading The Last of Us Season 3?

Fan reactions to Dever’s confirmed role are mixed. On X, posts reflect excitement for her performance, with @NaughtyDogWorld praising her as “incredible as Abby.” However, others express skepticism, citing Season 2’s divisive reception and Abby’s unpopularity.

Dever’s enthusiasm and the showrunners’ commitment to the game’s structure suggest confidence in winning over critics. Her prior connection to the franchise—she met Druckmann years ago about playing Ellie in a scrapped film—adds authenticity to her casting.

Some Closing Thoughts:

The Last of Us Season 3 is shaping up to be a pivotal chapter, with Dever’s Abby at its heart. As the series navigates controversial choices, it promises emotional depth and a fresh perspective on a beloved story.

The confirmation of Kaitlyn Dever as the lead in The Last of Us Season 3 marks a daring evolution for HBO’s hit series.

With a narrative shift to Abby’s perspective, fans can expect a season that challenges perceptions and deepens the franchise’s themes.

As production looms and anticipation builds, Dever’s performance could redefine how audiences view one of gaming’s most debated characters.

Stay tuned for more updates on The Last of Us Season 3, and prepare for a wetter, wilder ride in this post-apocalyptic saga.