'The Last of Us': Joel's Shocking Death - What Happens Next?
'The Last of Us' Season 2 Shocker: Joel's Brutal Death Explained
The End of an Era: Saying Goodbye to Joel Miller
Originally appeared on E! Online.
Warning: This article contains major spoilers for Sunday’s “The Last of Us” episode “Through the Valley.”
Hold on to your hats, folks! HBO’s "The Last of Us" just delivered a punch to the gut that no one saw coming – or at least, hoped wouldn't arrive so soon. Pedro Pascal, the internet’s favorite daddy, and the gruff but lovable Joel Miller, has officially exited the stage. Just two episodes into the highly anticipated second season, Joel's journey ended in a way that was as brutal as it was heartbreaking.
On Sunday's emotionally charged episode, titled "Through the Valley," former Fireflies member Abby, portrayed by Kaitlyn Dever, exacted her revenge. Fueled by the death of her father, who Joel coldly took out when he stopped the Fireflies from operating on Ellie in their desperate quest for a cordyceps cure during the season one finale, Abby beats Joel to death with a golf club. Yes, a golf club. The irony is palpable.
But wait, there's more (of course there is, it's "The Last of Us"!): Ellie, who Joel has always seen as a surrogate daughter following the tragic loss of his own child, was a witness to this horrific act. Let's dive into the messy, complicated, and utterly devastating details.
The Fatal Blow: How Joel's Death Unfolded
So, how exactly did this momentous event play out? The episode lured us in with a false sense of security, showing Joel settling into Jackson, Wyoming, forming bonds, and seemingly finding a semblance of peace. But as any veteran of this dystopian universe knows, tranquility is a fragile thing.
Joel and Tommy (his brother) ventured out to find a group of survivors. This is where they are ambushed by Abby's group, and Tommy and Joel are captured. The scene quickly turns deadly. In a moment of unimaginable brutality, Abby unleashes her pent-up rage on Joel with a golf club, leaving him lifeless and Ellie absolutely devastated.
The Golf Club: A Symbol of Unfulfilled Potential?
The choice of a golf club as the murder weapon is almost poetic in its cruelty. Golf is a game of precision, strategy, and often, leisure. It's a symbol of the world that was, a world where people had the luxury to pursue leisurely activities. In this ravaged world, it becomes an instrument of death, highlighting the futility of the old ways and the brutality of the new.
Abby's Revenge: Understanding Her Motivation
Abby's actions, while violent and shocking, are rooted in grief and a thirst for retribution. Her father was the doctor who was supposed to perform the surgery on Ellie to extract the cordyceps fungus, potentially leading to a cure. In Joel's eyes, saving Ellie's life was paramount. In Abby's eyes, Joel stole away the chance to save humanity. This conflict of ideologies is at the heart of "The Last of Us."
A Morally Grey World
One of the strengths of "The Last of Us" is its refusal to paint its characters as purely good or evil. Joel's actions, while understandable from his perspective, had devastating consequences. Abby's quest for revenge, while fueled by pain, leads her down a dark and potentially destructive path. Are there truly any "good guys" in this world?
Ellie's Trauma: The Fallout from Witnessing Joel's Murder
Imagine witnessing the brutal murder of the person you love most in the world. That's the trauma Ellie now carries. How will this affect her? Will she seek revenge? Will she retreat into herself? Bella Ramsey’s portrayal of Ellie is about to enter an even darker chapter, and we can only expect compelling, heart-wrenching drama.
The Evolution of Ellie's Character
Ellie has already evolved significantly from the scrappy teenager we met in season one. She's experienced loss, found love, and faced unimaginable horrors. Joel's death is a catalyst for further change, pushing her to confront the darkest parts of herself. It’s a testament to the incredible writing and the depth of Ramsey’s performance.
Pedro Pascal's Departure: What Does This Mean for the Show?
Pedro Pascal's portrayal of Joel Miller was a cornerstone of the show's success. His gruff exterior masked a deep-seated vulnerability, making him a complex and compelling character. His departure leaves a void, no doubt. However, "The Last of Us" is a story about survival, resilience, and the enduring power of human connection in the face of unimaginable loss. It's more than just one character.
The Show Must Go On
While Joel's death is a significant turning point, it also opens up new avenues for storytelling. The show can now explore Ellie's journey of grief and revenge, delve deeper into the complexities of Abby's character, and introduce new characters and storylines. It’s a risky move, but one that could pay off in terms of narrative depth and complexity.
Faithful Adaptation?: Comparing the Show to the Game
For those familiar with "The Last of Us Part II" video game, Joel's death isn't a surprise. The show is staying remarkably faithful to the source material. This has sparked debate among fans, with some praising the show's commitment to the story and others questioning the decision to kill off such a beloved character so early in the season.
The Power of Adaptation
Adapting a beloved video game is a delicate balancing act. Staying true to the source material is important, but so is finding ways to surprise and engage viewers who are already familiar with the story. "The Last of Us" has largely succeeded in this regard, capturing the spirit and tone of the game while also adding its own unique touches.
Kaitlyn Dever as Abby: A Controversial Casting Choice?
Kaitlyn Dever's casting as Abby has generated a lot of discussion. Abby is a physically imposing character in the game, and some fans have questioned whether Dever is the right fit. However, Dever is a talented actress, and she has the potential to bring a compelling and nuanced performance to the role. Ultimately, her performance will be judged on its merits, regardless of pre-existing expectations.
Abby: More Than Just a Villain
It's important to remember that Abby is not simply a villain. She's a complex character with her own motivations and traumas. The show will likely explore her backstory and delve into her relationships with her friends, giving viewers a deeper understanding of her actions. It's not about justifying her violence, but about understanding the circumstances that led her to this point.
Season 2 Speculation: What's Next for Ellie?
Now that Joel is gone, what does the future hold for Ellie? Will she seek revenge on Abby? Will she find a way to heal from her trauma? Will she be able to find love and happiness in this devastated world? Season 2 promises to be a rollercoaster of emotions, as Ellie navigates a world that is even more dangerous and unforgiving than before.
The Long Road Ahead
Ellie's journey is far from over. She still has much to learn, much to experience, and much to overcome. She is a survivor, and she has the strength and resilience to face whatever challenges lie ahead. But will she emerge from this darkness as the same person she was before? That remains to be seen.
The Impact on the Gaming Community
The gaming community has had years to process Joel's death, but seeing it brought to life on screen has been a whole new experience. Some are reliving the shock and sadness, while others are experiencing it for the first time. Regardless, it's a moment that has sparked intense discussion and debate among fans of the game.
A Shared Experience
One of the things that makes "The Last of Us" so special is its ability to bring people together. Whether you're a gamer or a TV viewer, you can connect with the characters and their struggles on a deeply emotional level. Joel's death is a shared experience, a moment of collective grief and reflection.
The Power of Storytelling: Why Joel's Death Matters
Ultimately, Joel's death serves a powerful narrative purpose. It's a reminder that even in a post-apocalyptic world, actions have consequences. It underscores the themes of revenge, forgiveness, and the complexities of human morality. It's a bold and risky storytelling choice, but one that has the potential to elevate the show to even greater heights.
A Legacy of Loss and Love
Joel's legacy will live on through Ellie. His love for her, his protectiveness, and his willingness to sacrifice everything for her will continue to shape her character and guide her decisions. He may be gone, but he will never be forgotten.
Conclusion: The End of an Icon, the Start of a New Chapter
Joel Miller's brutal death in "The Last of Us" Season 2 is a shocking and heartbreaking moment that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on viewers. While Pedro Pascal's departure is a significant loss, it also opens up new and exciting possibilities for the show. Ellie's journey of grief, revenge, and self-discovery promises to be a compelling and emotional ride. The world of "The Last of Us" is filled with complex characters and morally ambiguous choices. It challenges us to consider what we would do in similar situations. Prepare yourself, because this is just the beginning.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Will Joel appear in flashbacks in future episodes?
It's certainly possible! Flashbacks are a common storytelling device, and given Joel's importance to Ellie, we could see him again in memories or dreams. - Is Abby truly a villain, or is she more complex than that?
Abby is definitely a complex character. While her actions are brutal, they are motivated by grief and a desire for revenge. The show will likely explore her backstory and motivations in more detail, revealing a more nuanced character. - How will Ellie cope with the trauma of witnessing Joel's murder?
Witnessing such a horrific event will undoubtedly have a profound impact on Ellie. She will likely struggle with grief, anger, and PTSD. The show will explore her emotional journey as she tries to heal and move forward. - Will Tommy seek revenge for Joel's death?
Tommy's relationship with Joel was very close. It's highly probable that he will seek vengeance for the death of his brother, adding another layer of complexity to the unfolding narrative. - Does this mean the show will diverge significantly from "The Last of Us Part II" game?
While the show is staying largely faithful to the game, there may be some deviations. Adaptations often make changes to fit the medium or to surprise viewers familiar with the source material. So, expect some surprises along the way!
