The Last of Us Season 2's Abby Didn't Bulk Up Because HBO Didn't Need to Emulate Certain Video Game Mechanics, Neil Druckmann Says

HBO's adaptation of *The Last of Us Part II* will portray Abby differently than her video game counterpart. Showrunner Neil Druckmann explains that actress Kaitlyn Dever didn't need the extensive physical training required for the game's Abby, as the show prioritizes drama over moment-to-moment violent action. The game's mechanics, which required Abby to feel distinctly different from Ellie, are less crucial in the HBO series.

Druckmann stated, "In the game, you have to play both [Ellie and Abby], and we need them to play differently. We needed Ellie to feel smaller and kind of maneuver around, and Abby was meant to play more like Joel in that she's almost like a brute in the way she can physically manhandle certain things. That doesn't play as big of a role in this version of the story because there's not as much violent action moment to moment. It's more about the drama."

Fellow showrunner Craig Mazin added, "I personally think there is an amazing opportunity here to delve into someone who is perhaps physically more vulnerable than the Abby in the game, but whose spirit is stronger. And then the question is: 'Where does her formidable nature come from and how does it manifest?' That's something that will be explored now and later."

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Mazin's comment about "now and later" hints at HBO's intention to adapt *Part II* over multiple seasons. While Season 3 isn't confirmed, Season 2's seven-episode arc will conclude with a natural breakpoint, leaving ample material for future installments. The show's creators have previously indicated the sheer amount of story in *Part II* necessitates this approach.

The controversial nature of Abby's character in the game has unfortunately led to harassment of Naughty Dog employees, including Druckmann and actress Laura Bailey. This online abuse, including threats against Bailey's family, prompted HBO to provide additional security for actress Kaitlyn Dever during Season 2 filming. Actress Isabel Merced (Dina) commented on this, reminding viewers that Abby is a fictional character.