Kaitlyn Dever’s role in *The Last of Us* universe is a perfect storm of passion, timing, and talent. Once considered to embody Ellie, Dever now steps into the shoes of Abby, one of the series’ most complex and controversial characters. Here’s how Dever’s story came full circle in the post-apocalyptic world.
Kaitlyn Dever: A Surprising Journey into *The Last of Us* Universe
It’s a rare feat in Hollywood to go from nearly playing one iconic role to completely owning another. But Kaitlyn Dever has done just that. For nearly a decade, she’s been orbiting *The Last of Us* universe, from nearly landing the role of Ellie to now fully stepping into the boots of Abby, the fierce and emotionally charged character at the heart of Season 2.
When fans think of *The Last of Us*, they think of survival, love, betrayal, and, of course, Abby. The character’s arc is one of the most polarizing in gaming history, and now, it’s Dever who will bring her to life. The stakes are high, the pressure is immense, and yet Dever’s approach is one of excitement and gratitude.
But how did this all come about? How did Kaitlyn Dever, who once almost played Ellie, end up portraying one of the most talked-about characters in the world of *The Last of Us*?
From Almost-Ellie to Abby: A Full-Circle Moment
In an exclusive interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Kaitlyn Dever revealed that she never had to audition for Abby. The role was hers if she wanted it, a testament to the immense trust the showrunners had in her abilities. And honestly, it’s easy to see why. Abby is no ordinary character—she is a character full of rage, heartbreak, and moral complexity. And Dever is the actress who can handle all of that emotional depth.
But Dever’s journey with *The Last of Us* didn’t begin with Abby. In fact, it was nearly Ellie. “I had met with Neil years ago to potentially play Ellie. I’m still shocked to this day that it happened this way,” Dever shares, looking back on the past.
That was back when Neil Druckmann was still working on a film adaptation of the game. The project never saw the light of day, but now, years later, Dever finds herself in the midst of the *The Last of Us* universe after all—just not in the way she expected. Instead of playing Ellie, she is embracing the darkness of Abby, a character whose journey mirrors that of a tragic anti-hero.
Neil Druckmann’s Approach: Essence Over Exactness
When adapting beloved games into live-action shows, capturing the true essence of the characters is a balancing act. Neil Druckmann, the showrunner and mind behind the game’s narrative, knew from the start that it wasn’t about finding actors who looked exactly like their in-game counterparts. It was about finding actors who could capture the essence of the characters—and that’s exactly what Dever does with Abby.
“What matters most is whether they embody the essence of who these characters are,” Druckmann explains. “That’s what makes the story resonate, no matter who’s playing the role.”
For Dever, that meant diving deep into Abby’s emotional landscape and transforming herself into a powerhouse character capable of driving one of the most controversial storylines in gaming.
The Intensity of Season 2: A Darker, More Emotional Road Ahead
As fans brace themselves for the release of Season 2, expectations are high. The season, which is based on *The Last of Us Part II*, will bring with it some of the most intense emotional and physical conflicts the series has ever seen. From revenge and grief to survival and personal battles, Season 2 is shaping up to be a truly unforgettable ride.
“I’m still shocked to this day that it happened this way.” Kaitlyn Dever’s journey from almost-Ellie to Abby is a testament to the unpredictable and often surreal paths of an actor’s career. What’s clear, though, is that Dever was destined to be part of the *The Last of Us* legacy.
What’s Next for *The Last of Us* Season 2?
Season 2 promises to explore some of the darkest and most complex themes of the show, from grief to revenge, and fans are gearing up for an emotional rollercoaster. The premiere of *The Last of Us* Season 2 airs on April 13, 2025, and new episodes drop every Sunday at 9 PM ET on HBO and Max.
As Kaitlyn Dever steps into her role as Abby, we can expect the stakes to reach new heights, as the characters of *The Last of Us* are forced to confront their own personal demons while navigating a brutal, unforgiving world. Dever’s portrayal of Abby is sure to spark conversation, debate, and admiration as the season unfolds.
And while the show will dive into some of the series’ most difficult subjects—revenge, betrayal, and loss—it’s clear that Kaitlyn Dever’s presence will be the emotional anchor of the season. From “almost-Ellie” to “full-blown Abby,” this is a journey that fans won’t forget.
Dever’s Ultimate Showdown in *The Last of Us* Universe
Kaitlyn Dever’s journey with *The Last of Us* has come full circle in the most extraordinary way. From almost playing Ellie to becoming Abby, her evolution as an actress mirrors the transformation of the character she now portrays. With Season 2 on the horizon, fans are in for one of the most thrilling, emotionally charged chapters of the show yet. Get ready for Abby—and get ready for Kaitlyn Dever to deliver a performance that fans of *The Last of Us* won’t soon forget.