HBO’s The Last of Us adaptation has garnered a lot of attention and anticipation from fans of the original PlayStation video game released in 2013. While staying faithful to the story, the series also introduces some interesting tweaks and expansions to existing characters, as well as the addition of new ones.
Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey take on the roles of Joel and Ellie, respectively. The original actors who voiced these characters in the game, Troy Baker and Ashley Johnson, also make appearances in supporting roles. The cast also includes Jeffery Pierce, who played Tommy in the game, and Merle Dandridge, reprising her role as Marlene.
Let’s take a closer look at the cast of HBO’s The Last of Us adaptation and the characters they bring to life.
Pedro Pascal portrays Joel Miller, one of the central protagonists of The Last of Us. Joel is a survivor in the post-apocalyptic world who experiences intense emotional turmoil after losing his teenage daughter at the beginning of the outbreak. Pedro Pascal, known for his roles in The Mandalorian, Narcos, and Game of Thrones, brings his versatility as an actor to the role. He has also lent his voice to the character of Paolo in Dishonored 2.
Bella Ramsey takes on the role of Ellie Williams, a teenage orphan who is immune to the virus that plagues humanity. Ramsey, recognized for her portrayal of Lyanna Mormont in Game of Thrones, brings her talent and presence to the character of Ellie. She has also appeared in shows like His Dark Materials and The Worst Witch, showcasing her range as an actress. Additionally, Ramsey voiced the character Freya in Doctor Who Infinity.
Gabriel Luna plays Tommy Miller, Joel’s brother who accompanies him and Ellie on their journey. Luna, best known for his role as Ghost Rider in Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. and as the main antagonist in Terminator: Dark Fate, brings his acting prowess to the character of Tommy. He has also done voice work for the video game Blacksite: Area 51.
Anna Torv portrays Tess Servopoulous, Joel’s partner in crime. Torv, an Australian actress, gained recognition for her leading role in the sci-fi series Fringe and her portrayal of Wendy Carr in the Netflix series Mindhunter. She also voiced the lead role in the action-adventure game Heavenly Sword. Torv’s talent adds depth to the character of Tess in the adaptation.
Merle Dandridge reprises her role as Marlene, the leader of the Fireflies resistance group. Dandridge is the only actor from the video game to portray their character in the HBO adaptation. Besides her video game role as Marlene, she has made notable appearances on Broadway and in television shows like Sons of Anarchy and Station 19.
Nick Offerman takes on the role of Bill, a survivalist with a guarded town. Offerman, known for his iconic role as Ron Swanson in Parks and Recreation, brings his dramatic acting skills to the character of Bill. His portrayal adds depth and complexity to the role of the survivalist.
Murray Bartlett plays Frank, Bill’s partner, whose character is explored in greater depth in the HBO adaptation. Bartlett, an Australian actor, won an Emmy Award for his role in The White Lotus and has appeared in series like Looking and Tales of the City. He is also nominated for a Critic’s Choice Television Award for his upcoming role in Welcome to Chippendales.
Storm Reid plays Riley, Ellie’s best friend, and their relationship is explored in an episode that reimagines the events of the Left Behind expansion content from the game. Reid, known for her roles in Euphoria and A Wrinkle in Time, brings her talent to the character of Riley. She has also appeared in films.
Scott Shepherd plays David, the enigmatic and unsettling leader of the Silver Lake community, with whom Ellie has a fateful encounter. David’s character is portrayed with chilling intensity, capturing the complex and disturbing nature of the role.
Scott Shepherd is an accomplished actor known for his work in both film and theater. He has appeared in notable films such as Bridge of Spies, Jason Bourne, and And So It Goes. In addition to his on-screen performances, Shepherd has an extensive background in stage acting and has worked with renowned theater companies like the Wooster Group and the Royal Shakespeare Company.
Ashley Johnson as Anna Williams
The Last of Us Cast and Characters Anna Williams Ashley Johnson
Image: HBO
Ashley Johnson reprises her role as Anna Williams, Ellie’s mother, in the HBO adaptation of The Last of Us. Anna’s story and relationship with Ellie are explored through flashbacks, providing crucial insights into Ellie’s origins and motivations.
Ashley Johnson is a talented actress with a diverse range of roles in her repertoire. In addition to her portrayal of Ellie in The Last of Us video game series, she has appeared in numerous television shows, including Critical Role, Blindspot, and Teen Titans Go!. Johnson’s performances have garnered critical acclaim, and her return as Anna Williams adds depth and continuity to the adaptation.
Elaine Miles as Florence
The Last of Us Cast and Characters Florence Elaine Miles
Image: HBO
Elaine Miles plays Florence, a member of the Fireflies resistance group in the HBO adaptation of The Last of Us. Florence’s character brings a sense of determination and resilience to the screen, showcasing the strength of the survivors in the post-apocalyptic world.
Elaine Miles is an accomplished actress known for her role as Marilyn Whirlwind in the television series Northern Exposure. Her portrayal of Florence in The Last of Us adds another layer of authenticity to the adaptation, as she captures the essence of a survivor fighting for a better future.
Graham Greene as Marlon
The Last of Us Cast and Characters Marlon Graham Greene
Image: HBO
Graham Greene portrays Marlon, a member of the Fireflies resistance group in the HBO adaptation of The Last of Us. Marlon’s character brings a sense of loyalty and camaraderie to the story, highlighting the bonds formed in the face of adversity.
Graham Greene is a highly respected actor known for his work in both film and television. He has appeared in notable films such as Dances with Wolves, The Green Mile, and Wind River. Greene’s portrayal of Marlon adds depth and authenticity to the adaptation, showcasing the struggles and alliances formed in the post-apocalyptic world.
The Last of Us HBO adaptation stays true to the heart of the original game, faithfully retelling the story of Joel and Ellie’s journey across a devastated United States. The cast, led by Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey, delivers powerful performances, bringing these beloved characters to life on the screen. With the addition of new characters and the return of familiar faces, such as Troy Baker and Ashley Johnson, the adaptation expands on the rich lore and deepens the emotional connections of the story.
As fans of the game and newcomers alike watch the HBO adaptation of The Last of Us, they will recognize the talented cast members from their previous roles in various films and television shows. This guide serves as a helpful introduction, shedding light on the actors’ backgrounds and the characters they portray in the series.
The Last of Us has captivated audiences with its compelling narrative and emotional depth, and the HBO adaptation promises to bring that same experience to the screen. With a talented cast and creative decisions that expand upon the original story, fans can anticipate an immersive and faithful retelling of this post-apocalyptic masterpiece