warning: This post includes spoilers from The last of us Season 2.
HBO The last of us Season 2 wastes no time diving into one of the most emotional and controversial moments of the game – Joel’s death (portrayed by Pedro Pascal). As the series continued to follow the source material closely, fans were left reeling after episode 2 presented a brutal turning point that reshaped everything.
Whether you’ve played the game or experienced the story for the first time, here’s a breakdown of what happened to Joel, why it’s important, and what it means for the rest of the season.
Does Joel die in The last of us Season 2?
Yes. In HBO Season 2 The last of us, Joel was killed in a story that reflects the evolution of the main plot of The last of us is the second part Video game.
The last of us Season 2, Episode 2 Synopsis
Episode 2 titled “Across the valley,” It offers one of the series’ most shocking moments to date: Joel’s brutal death. After rescuing Abby from a horde of injured, Joel is lured to a hostel where she and her group are hiding. There, Abby shot him in the leg and eventually killed him when Ellie arrived too late to intervene. The episode ends with the destruction of Eli, carrying Joel’s body and vowing revenge, paving the way for what is to come.
Why does Joel die in The last of us?
Joel’s death is the result of a vengeful arc. At the end of the first season (and the first game), Joel kills a doctor to save Eli – a man is later revealed to be Abby’s father (who he plays Kaitlyn Dever), a new character in season 2. In pursuit of justice, Abby tracks down and kills Joel, leading to a new cycle of violence and grief that forms the emotional core of the story.
Is Joel really dead in The last of us?
Yes, Joel’s death is confirmed in the current timeline of The last of us Season 2. However, his personality continues to emerge through flashbacks, memories and emotional recalls. In episode 5, titled “Feel Her Love,” which aired on May 11, 2025, viewers were surprised by Joel’s return in the flashback scene.
@rottentomatoes trailer for next week’s episode of #TheLastOfUs He teases a flashback episode with Joel and Ellie. #tv #tvtok #trailer #hbo #pedropascal #videogames #tlou
Presenters also previously confirmed that Pascal will remain part of the series in a non-linear, more limited role, reflecting the storytelling approach to the original video game.
