The highly anticipated second season of The Last of Us returns with its gripping tale of survival, love, and vengeance in a world ravaged by the Cordyceps infection. Based on Naughty Dog’s critically acclaimed The Last of Us Part II, this season promises to delve deeper into the emotional and physical toll of Ellie’s journey while introducing new characters who will challenge everything we know about morality in this broken world. With stunning cinematography, heart-wrenching performances, and the series’ signature blend of horror and humanity, Season 2 is poised to be one of 2025’s most talked-about television events.
Below is the complete cast list for The Last of Us Season 2, featuring returning favorites and exciting new additions to this dystopian drama. Each actor brings remarkable depth to their roles, creating what may be television’s most compelling ensemble.
Cast of The Last of Us Season 2
1. Pedro Pascal as Joel Miller
Born: April 2, 1975 in Santiago, Chile
Notable Works: The Mandalorian (2019–present), Narcos (2015–2017), The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent (2022)
Pedro Pascal reprises his Emmy-nominated role as Joel Miller, the hardened survivor whose relationship with Ellie has reshaped his moral compass. After the devastating events of Season 1’s finale, Joel must confront the consequences of his actions while protecting Ellie from new threats. Pascal’s ability to balance toughness with vulnerability makes Joel one of television’s most complex protagonists.
From Game of Thrones to The Mandalorian, Pascal has become one of Hollywood’s most sought-after actors. Season 2 will challenge Joel in unexpected ways, forcing him to reckon with his past while facing dangerous new enemies. His chemistry with Bella Ramsey remains the emotional core of the series.
2. Bella Ramsey as Ellie Williams
Born: September 30, 2003 in Nottingham, England
Notable Works: Game of Thrones (2016–2019), Hilda (2018–2023), Catherine Called Birdy (2022)
Bella Ramsey returns as Ellie, the immune teenager whose journey takes a darker, more violent turn in Season 2. Ramsey’s portrayal in Season 1 was universally praised for capturing Ellie’s humor, rage, and deep emotional scars. Now, as Ellie seeks vengeance, Ramsey will showcase even greater dramatic range.
After breaking out as Lyanna Mormont in Game of Thrones, Ramsey has proven their versatility in both animation (Hilda) and period comedies (Catherine Called Birdy). Season 2 will push Ellie to her limits, exploring themes of trauma and redemption through Ramsey’s powerhouse performance.
3. Kaitlyn Dever as Abby Anderson
Born: December 21, 1996 in Phoenix, Arizona
Notable Works: Unbelievable (2019), Booksmart (2019), Dopesick (2021)
Kaitlyn Dever joins the cast as Abby Anderson, a formidable new character whose arrival changes everything. Known for her emotionally charged performances in Unbelievable and Dopesick, Dever is perfectly cast as this physically imposing yet deeply complex figure. Abby’s storyline is one of the most anticipated—and controversial—elements of Season 2.
Dever’s career has shown incredible range, from comedy (Booksmart) to intense drama (Last Man Standing). Her physical transformation for the role and ability to humanize morally ambiguous characters make Abby one of the season’s most fascinating additions.
4. Gabriel Luna as Tommy Miller
Born: December 5, 1982 in Austin, Texas
Notable Works: Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. (2016–2019), Terminator: Dark Fate (2019), Wicked City (2015)
Gabriel Luna returns as Tommy Miller, Joel’s younger brother and a key figure in the Jackson community. Luna brings warmth and intensity to the role, embodying Tommy’s idealism in contrast to Joel’s cynicism. Season 2 will explore Tommy’s own journey in greater depth, particularly his relationship with Maria.
Luna’s background in action-heavy roles (Terminator: Dark Fate) and dramatic TV (Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.) makes him a natural fit for The Last of Us. His expanded role in Season 2 promises more emotional and physical challenges.
5. Isabela Merced as Dina
Born: July 10, 2001 in Cleveland, Ohio
Notable Works: Transformers: The Last Knight (2017), Dora and the Lost City of Gold (2019), Madame Web (2024)
Isabela Merced joins as Dina, Ellie’s close friend and love interest. Merced’s charm and emotional range make her perfect for this fan-favorite character. Dina’s relationship with Ellie will be a major emotional throughline, offering moments of tenderness amidst the brutality.
From blockbusters (Madame Web) to indie dramas (The Fallout), Merced has quickly become one of Hollywood’s most promising young stars. Her chemistry with Bella Ramsey will be crucial to Season 2’s emotional impact.
6. Jeffrey Wright as Isaac Dixon
Born: December 7, 1965 in Washington, D.C.
Notable Works: Westworld (2016–2022), The Batman (2022), No Time to Die (2021)
Jeffrey Wright guest stars as Isaac Dixon, the ruthless leader of the Washington Liberation Front (WLF). Wright’s commanding presence makes him ideal for this authoritarian yet strategic figure. Isaac’s role will add new layers to the conflict between survivor factions.
An Emmy and Tony winner, Wright brings unparalleled gravitas to every role. His portrayal of Isaac promises to be one of Season 2’s most memorable performances.
Additional Cast Highlights:
- Young Mazino as Jesse (Beef) – A loyal friend caught in the crossfire
- Tati Gabrielle as Nora Harris (The 100) – A WLF medic with ties to Abby
- Danny Ramirez as Manny Alvarez (Top Gun: Maverick) – A soldier facing moral dilemmas
- Catherine O’Hara as Gail (Schitt’s Creek) – A quirky but resourceful survivor
- Joe Pantoliano as Eugene Linden (The Sopranos) – A former Firefly with crucial knowledge
Why Season 2 Is a Must-Watch
With its expanded world, higher stakes, and unflinching emotional depth, The Last of Us Season 2 is poised to surpass its groundbreaking first season. The introduction of Abby’s storyline promises intense drama, while returning characters face their toughest challenges yet.
