Actress Kaitlyn Dever, cast as Abby in The Last of Us Season 2, acknowledges the difficulty of ignoring online reactions to her portrayal. The character of Abby has been the target of significant online toxicity, with harassment directed at Naughty Dog employees, including Neil Druckmann and Laura Bailey, extending to threats and abuse against Bailey's family. HBO even provided Dever with extra security during filming, anticipating potential escalation given the intense negative reaction to the character. Isabel Merced, who plays Dina, commented on the disturbing reality of fans directing hatred towards a fictional character, emphasizing that Abby is not a real person.
The Last of Us Season 2 Character Posters
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In a ScreenRant interview, Dever discussed the anticipation surrounding her portrayal of Abby, admitting it's challenging to avoid online commentary. She emphasized her commitment to doing justice to the character and making fans proud, prioritizing collaboration with Neil Druckmann and Craig Mazin to understand Abby's core motivations, emotional state, and the driving forces behind her actions, including her anger, frustration, and grief.
The Last of Us Season 2 Cast: Who's New and Coming Back to the HBO Show?
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Neil Druckmann recently clarified that the HBO adaptation will not feature Abby as a physically imposing character as in the game, explaining that the show's approach prioritizes drama over replicating specific game mechanics. Druckmann and Craig Mazin highlighted to Entertainment Weekly that Dever's casting was ideal, as the show's focus on emotional depth rather than constant violent action lessened the need for her to physically emulate the game's Abby. Druckmann emphasized the different requirements for portraying Ellie and Abby in the game versus the show. Mazin added that the series explores a more vulnerable yet spiritually stronger Abby, focusing on the origins and manifestations of her formidable nature.
The suggestion of a "natural breakpoint" after seven episodes in Season 2, as stated by Mazin, hints at HBO's intention to adapt The Last of Us Part II over multiple seasons, despite Season 1 covering the entirety of the first game. While Season 3 isn't confirmed, the extensive story of Part II suggests a continuation beyond a single season.
