Abby's Bulk-Up Skipped in The Last of Us Season 2, Says Druckmann

The HBO adaptation of *The Last of Us Part 2* will take a different approach to Abby's character, as revealed by showrunner and Naughty Dog studio head Neil Druckmann. In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, Druckmann and fellow showrunner Craig Mazin explained that actress Kaitlyn Dever, who plays Abby, did not need to bulk up for the role. This decision stems from the fact that Abby's muscularity in the game was designed to differentiate her gameplay mechanics from Ellie's, a necessity that doesn't apply to the TV series.

"We would've struggled to find someone as good as Kaitlyn to play this role," Druckmann stated. He elaborated that in the game, players control both Ellie and Abby, requiring distinct gameplay styles. Ellie is portrayed as smaller and more agile, while Abby's design was inspired by Joel's brute strength, allowing her to physically dominate certain situations. However, in the HBO series, the focus shifts from constant violent action to drama, reducing the need for Abby to be as physically imposing.

Craig Mazin added that this change presents an opportunity to explore Abby's character in a new light. "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," he said. This approach will allow the series to delve into where Abby's formidable nature originates and how it manifests, a theme that will be explored both in the upcoming Season 2 and potentially beyond.

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Mazin's mention of "now and later" hints at HBO's plans to extend *The Last of Us Part 2* beyond a single season. Unlike Season 1, which covered the entire first game, Season 2 will adapt only part of the sequel's story, with a "natural breakpoint" after seven episodes. While Season 3 has not been officially greenlit, the groundwork has been laid for further exploration of the narrative.

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. This backlash included threats and abuse directed at Bailey, her parents, and her young son. HBO took these concerns seriously, providing extra security for Kaitlyn Dever during the filming of Season 2. Isabel Merced, who plays Dina in the series, commented on the situation, saying, "There's so many strange people in this world because there are people that actually genuinely hate Abby, who is not a real person. Just a reminder: not a real person."