Home News The Last of Us Season 2's Abby Didn't Bulk Up Because HBO Didn't Need to Emulate Certain Video Game Mechanics, Neil Druckmann Says

The Last of Us Season 2's Abby Didn't Bulk Up Because HBO Didn't Need to Emulate Certain Video Game Mechanics, Neil Druckmann Says

by Savannah Mar 04,2025

HBO's adaptation of The Last of Us Part II will portray Abby differently than in the game. Showrunner Neil Druckmann explains that actress Kaitlyn Dever didn't need the same physical build as the game's Abby because the show prioritizes drama over moment-to-moment violent action. The show's Abby will be "physically more vulnerable," but with a stronger spirit, according to showrunner Craig Mazin. This approach allows for a deeper exploration of Abby's formidable nature.

The show plans to adapt Part II over multiple seasons, unlike Season 1's adaptation of the first game. Season 2, comprising seven episodes, will end with a natural breakpoint.

The controversial nature of Abby's character in the game led to online harassment of Naughty Dog employees, including Druckmann and Laura Bailey (Abby's voice actress). This online abuse even prompted increased security measures for actress Kaitlyn Dever during filming. Isabel Merced (Dina) emphasizes that Abby is a fictional character and not a real person.

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