HBO’s The Last of Us Season 2, which premiered on April 13, 2025, has sparked intense discussion among fans, particularly around the character Abby Anderson, played by Kaitlyn Dever. As a pivotal figure in the adaptation of The Last of Us Part II, Abby’s role is complex, divisive, and central to the show’s narrative. This blog post dives into who Abby is, why she’s controversial, and how her story unfolds in Season 2, all while keeping spoilers to a minimum for those who haven’t watched yet.
Who Is Abby in The Last of Us Season 2?
Abby Anderson is a new character introduced in The Last of Us Season 2, based on her prominent role in the 2020 video game The Last of Us Part II. Portrayed by Kaitlyn Dever, known for her powerful performances in Booksmart and Dopesick, Abby is a skilled soldier affiliated with the Washington Liberation Front (WLF), a militia group in the post-apocalyptic world ravaged by a fungal infection. Her character is driven by a deeply personal motivation tied to events from the first season, making her a complex figure who blurs the line between hero and antagonist.
Unlike the game, where Abby’s backstory is revealed gradually, the HBO series introduces her motives earlier to suit the television format. This change, explained by co-showrunner Neil Druckmann, aims to build empathy for Abby from the start, as viewers can’t “play” her like in the game, where controlling her actions fosters a connection.
Why Is Abby So Controversial?
Abby’s introduction in Season 2 has reignited debates that first surfaced with The Last of Us Part II. Without diving into spoilers, her actions early in the season—particularly in episode 2—shock viewers and reshape the story’s trajectory. This moment, faithfully adapted from the game, alienated some fans due to its emotional weight and moral ambiguity. Posts on X reflect this divide, with some users praising the show’s bold storytelling and others criticizing its handling of Abby’s arc.
Another point of contention is Abby’s physical appearance. In the game, Abby is depicted as muscular, her physique reflecting years of survival and training. However, casting Kaitlyn Dever, who has a slimmer build, sparked backlash from some fans who felt her physicality was integral to the character. Druckmann addressed this, noting that finding an actress of Abby’s exact size and age was challenging, and Dever’s acting prowess—evident in her ability to convey grief and rage—was prioritized.
Abby’s Role in Season 2
In Season 2, Abby appears sparingly after her dramatic introduction, with the narrative focusing primarily on Ellie (Bella Ramsey) and her journey in Seattle. However, her presence looms large, driving key plot points. The season, which covers roughly the first half of The Last of Us Part II, ends on a cliffhanger in episode 7, setting up Abby’s perspective to take center stage in Season 3. This mirrors the game’s structure, where players switch to Abby’s viewpoint midway through, exploring her side of the story.
The showrunners, Craig Mazin and Neil Druckmann, have tweaked Abby’s arc to fit the TV medium. For example, a monologue in episode 2, not present in the game, gives insight into her motivations, making her actions feel more justified to some viewers. This change aims to make Abby’s complex emotions accessible without the interactive element of gameplay.
What Makes Abby’s Story Compelling?
Abby’s arc challenges viewers to grapple with themes of revenge, empathy, and perspective. The show, like the game, asks whether vengeance justifies violence in a world where everyone has lost something. Kaitlyn Dever’s performance has been widely praised, with critics noting her ability to convey Abby’s pain and anger, making her a standout despite limited screen time.
Season 2’s finale hints at a deeper exploration of Abby’s life in the WLF and her connections to other characters, such as her friends Owen and Mel. This sets up Season 3, confirmed to focus heavily on Abby, promising a “wetter” season with new characters like Lev, a Seraphite, and more focus on the WLF-Seraphite conflict.
Why Abby Matters for The Last of Us
Abby’s role is pivotal because it forces audiences to question their loyalties. As one X user noted, the story’s point is to make you feel conflicted, highlighting how revenge fuels a cycle of violence. By presenting Abby’s perspective alongside Ellie’s, The Last of Us Season 2 delivers a morally complex narrative that doesn’t shy away from tough choices—a hallmark of the franchise.
What’s Next for Abby in Season 3?
With Season 3 already greenlit, Abby’s story will take center stage, exploring her days in Seattle and her relationships with the WLF and new characters. While the show stays faithful to the game’s core, Mazin and Druckmann have hinted at tweaks to enhance the narrative for TV, ensuring Abby’s journey remains gripping for both game fans and newcomers.
Final Thoughts
Abby Anderson is a lightning rod for discussion in The Last of Us Season 2, embodying the show’s bold approach to storytelling. Kaitlyn Dever’s portrayal, combined with the showrunners’ thoughtful changes, makes Abby a character you’ll love, hate, or both. As Season 3 looms, her story promises to deepen the emotional and moral complexity that makes The Last of Us a standout HBO series.
Catch The Last of Us Season 2 on HBO Max, with new episodes available for streaming. Stay tuned for Season 3, which will dive deeper into Abby’s world.
