The HBO series “The Last of Us” has stunned its audience with the shocking death of Joel Miller, a beloved character portrayed by Pedro Pascal. During the long-awaited Season 2, Episode 1 opener, millions of fans witnessed a gut-wrenching episode. Abby, portrayed by Kaitlyn Dever, struck the killing blow with Joel, setting off a brutal revenge cycle. This pivotal event marks not only a significant turning point in the show but resonates deeply with fans who have followed Joel’s journey alongside Ellie, a young girl immune to the deadly Cordyceps brain infection.
With Ellie as a surrogate daughter, Joel has been hardened and taught survival over the years by the dangers of traversing a post-apocalyptic world. His relationship with Ellie becomes the core of the story, which amplifies the impact of his death. Abby goes on a quest for revenge after her father’s terrible death. It’s Joel and the rebel Fireflies that she blames for the loss of his life. This shocking turn of events resonates across the entire series and leaves audiences to contend with the gravity of his death.
The Context of Joel’s Death
Joel’s morally intricate personality enchants viewers at the same time as he fights for survival. His fierce protectiveness over Ellie further develops his arc. His relationship with her is suffused with a deeper emotional complexity. United, they fight against the violent environment they live in. The Fireflies’ intentions to exploit Ellie’s immunity for profit further amplify the tension of their trajectory.
In Season 2, Episode 1, viewers were treated to a startling surprise. When Joel meets his unexpected demise, the world was left reeling. Abby’s desire for revenge is the catalyst that propels the entire story. Her actions illuminate the cruel cycle of violence that pervades the series.
“We love Pedro, but I told him the very first time I ever Zoomed with him, ‘So here’s the thing, you’re playing this guy, Joel. In Season 2, he’s gonna die,’” – Craig Mazin
This foreboding tidbit, shared by co-creator Craig Mazin, serves to highlight the stark, methodical trajectory that Joel’s character was on and the grueling decision that was made regarding his fate. Fans of the video game “The Last of Us, Part II” will know this scene. It is a direct response to a climactic moment from the game, establishing an incredibly powerful connection between the two arts.
Audience Reactions
The firestorm discontent with fans has been pretty extreme since the time Joel died. Many viewers expressed their shock and devastation on social media, taking to platforms to voice their feelings about this unexpected turn. Comments poured in as fans processed the emotional shock of losing such a beloved character and TV mainstay.
“Ok that was actually much worse than I imagined it would be.” – X user
The overwhelmingly positive response to Ellie’s violent end is an indication of the strong attachment that viewers have developed towards both Joel and Ellie throughout the series. As one fan remarked, “Adding her to my list of Top 10 MOST HATED TV CHARACTERS. And it’s only been two episodes.” Here we have an example of how Abby’s actions have almost instantly polarized the fandom.
Fans have theorized over how this will affect the story from here on out. As one user proclaimed, “Take my word on this! I’ve played both games thousands of times. Trust us, it will all come together in the end. Yet even that pessimism is enough to kindle the fires of optimism in fans. We look forward to seeing the story develop in all of the above-mentioned, exciting directions.
The Legacy of Joel Miller
Even off screen, Pedro Pascal’s stunning performance as Joel has made a huge impact on the show’s audiences. Although his emotional connection to the character is obvious, it’s made all the more clear when you consider the depth of their relationship built over two full seasons. Even Pascal himself was honest about struggling with the process of Joel’s death.
“I’m in active denial (about the death scene). I realize this more and more as I get older… but never will under the circumstances of playing Joel on ‘The Last of Us.’” – Pedro Pascal
Pascal’s professional investment in the role comes through in this short statement. As many fans will agree, no matter how high-profile the series gets with his presence, it will always be the lesser without him, much like Indy’s voice. Since we played as Joel, Joel’s death even carries emotional weight. That makes us appreciate even more how the show masterfully weaves epic war spectacle with intimate character studies.