The Last of Us Season 2's Abby, Kaitlyn Dever, Says It's 'Hard Not to See Those Things on the Internet'

Actress Kaitlyn Dever, cast as Abby in The Last of Us Season 2, acknowledges the difficulty of ignoring online reactions to her portrayal. The character of Abby has faced significant online toxicity, with harassment directed at Naughty Dog employees, including Neil Druckmann and actress Laura Bailey, extending to threats and abuse against Bailey's family. HBO took this into account during filming, providing Dever with extra security. Isabel Merced, who plays Dina, commented on the irrational hatred directed at a fictional character, emphasizing that Abby is not a real person.

The Last of Us Season 2 Character Posters

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In a ScreenRant interview, Dever discussed the anticipation surrounding her performance. She admitted to occasionally checking online responses, driven by a desire to do the character justice and make fans proud. However, her primary focus remained on collaborating with Neil Druckmann and Craig Mazin, ensuring an authentic portrayal of Abby's core personality, motivations, and emotional landscape, including her anger, frustration, and grief.

The Last of Us Season 2 Cast: Who's New and Coming Back to the HBO Show?

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Neil Druckmann revealed that the HBO adaptation will not feature Abby as a physically imposing character as in the game, as the show prioritizes drama over replicating specific game mechanics. Druckmann and Craig Mazin explained to Entertainment Weekly that Dever's casting was ideal, as the show's focus shifts the emphasis away from Abby's physical strength, allowing for a more nuanced exploration of her character's spirit and vulnerability. Druckmann highlighted the differing requirements for portraying Ellie and Abby in the game versus the show. Mazin added that this approach allows for a deeper exploration of Abby's formidable nature and its origins.

The planned extension of the story beyond a single season suggests a "natural breakpoint" after seven episodes, according to Mazin, despite the lack of a confirmed Season 3. He previously stated that The Last of Us Part II contains a wealth of material to adapt.