Season 2 of The Last of Us concluded on Sunday night, captivating audiences with a total of 3.7 million cross-platform viewers in the U.S., according to HBO. Although this figure marks a decline from the 5.3 million viewers who tuned in for the premiere episode, the network anticipates significant growth following the Memorial Day holiday weekend. This optimism is supported by the fact that Season 2 is currently averaging more viewers over time compared to its predecessor, Season 1.
According to HBO, Season 2 of The Last of Us is already accumulating nearly 37 million global viewers per episode and continues to rise. For context, the Season 1 premiere eventually attracted close to 32 million viewers within 90 days post-premiere, establishing it as the largest audience for an HBO and Max debut season to date. Since the conclusion of Season 1, the series has experienced a remarkable surge in viewership, surpassing 90 million total viewers.
Despite the impressive numbers, the show has yet to eclipse the audience record set by the Season 1 finale, which had 8.2 million viewers. While there remains ample opportunity for the finale to grow its audience, it’s important to note that this slight decline in viewership is not entirely unexpected. The Last of Us Part II, the game on which this season is based, was met with considerable controversy due to its bold narrative choices, which continue to provoke discussion and strong opinions nearly five years after its release.
Season 2 of the HBO series adapts the first half of the second game, and it has similarly drawn mixed reactions from fans and critics alike. Set 20 years after the collapse of modern civilization, The Last of Us follows Joel, a battle-hardened survivor portrayed by Pedro Pascal, who is tasked with smuggling Ellie, played by Bella Ramsey, a 14-year-old girl, out of a repressive quarantine zone. What begins as a simple job evolves into a harrowing journey filled with brutality and heartbreak, forcing both characters to rely on one another for survival.
Season 2 picks up five years after the events of the first season, thrusting Joel and Ellie into a conflict that tests their relationship amid a world that is increasingly dangerous and unpredictable. The season features returning cast members such as Gabriel Luna and Rutina Wesley. New additions to the cast include Kaitlyn Dever, Isabela Merced, Young Mazino, Ariela Barer, Tati Gabrielle, Spencer Lord, Danny Ramirez, and Jeffrey Wright. Additionally, Catherine O’Hara makes a guest appearance, adding further depth to the series.
As the story unfolds, viewers can expect intense character development and complex narratives that explore the emotional and psychological impacts of survival in a post-apocalyptic world. With its gripping storyline and rich character arcs, Season 2 of The Last of Us continues to engage audiences and solidify its place in the realm of acclaimed television adaptations.
