"Abby's Bulk Not Needed for HBO's The Last of Us Season 2, Says Druckmann"

The HBO adaptation of The Last of Us Part 2 will present Abby, portrayed by Kaitlyn Dever, in a less muscular form than her video game counterpart. Showrunner and Naughty Dog studio head Neil Druckmann explained to Entertainment Weekly that this change stems from the different storytelling priorities in the TV series compared to the game. In the game, Abby's physicality was crucial for distinguishing her gameplay mechanics from Ellie's, making her feel more like a brute similar to Joel. However, in the HBO series, the focus shifts more towards drama rather than constant violent action, reducing the need for Abby to be as physically imposing.

Druckmann emphasized the challenge of finding an actress as talented as Kaitlyn Dever for the role, highlighting that the series' narrative allows for a different approach to Abby's character. Co-showrunner Craig Mazin added that this version of Abby could explore a character who is physically more vulnerable but possesses a stronger spirit, delving into the origins and manifestations of her formidable nature.

The adaptation plans to extend The Last of Us Part 2 beyond a single season, with Season 2 designed to have a "natural breakpoint" after seven episodes. This approach differs from Season 1, which covered the entire first game in nine episodes.

The character of Abby has been a focal point of controversy, with some fans expressing their discontent through harassment of Naughty Dog employees, including Druckmann and actress Laura Bailey, who voiced Abby in the game. The backlash was severe enough that HBO provided extra security for Kaitlyn Dever during the filming of Season 2. Isabel Merced, who plays Dina in the series, commented on the absurdity of the situation, reminding fans that Abby is a fictional character.

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