HBO's acclaimed adaptation of The Last of Us will officially end with its upcoming third season, according to HBO chairman and CEO Casey Bloys. While season 2 was always intended to adapt the events of The Last of Us Part II, and season 3 was confirmed to continue this adaptation, the decision has now been made to conclude the series after the third installment.
Speaking to Deadline, Bloys stated, "Craig [Mazin] has planned it as the final season." Mazin, who co-created the series with game director Neil Druckmann, is serving as showrunner. Season 1 adapted the entirety of the first game, while season 2 is splitting the narrative of The Last of Us Part II across its run, focusing on Ellie's quest for revenge after Joel's death and her pursuit of Abby. Season 3 is set to revisit this period from Abby's perspective and will introduce the character of Lev.
Neil Druckmann, a key creative force behind the game series and co-creator of the show, has stepped away from direct involvement in season 3. He recently affirmed to The Washington Post that Naughty Dog, the game's developer, holds no creative role in the final season. However, Druckmann has indicated that he still has future plans for The Last of Us franchise.
Bloys confirmed that season 3 is scheduled for release in 2027, though no specific date or window was provided. For those eager for more video game adaptations, Sony is reportedly developing a God of War series for Prime Video starring Dave Bautista.