'The Last Of Us' season 2 is here! When and where to stream this gripping post-apocalyptic drama

The Last of Us is officially back for a long-awaited second season, marking its return after a two-year break since the groundbreaking first season aired in 2023. Adapted from the critically acclaimed PlayStation video game series created by Naughty Dog, the series struck a chord with viewers through its raw storytelling and emotional depth.

Now, HBO is ready to resume the gripping post-apocalyptic journey, continuing from where Season 1 left off. Although there are some changes in the cast lineup, fans will be glad to know that Pedro Pascal reprises his role as Joel and Bella Ramsey returns as Ellie—both central to the heart of the series.

Season 2 premiered on Sunday at 9:00 PM ET on HBO and MAX. Viewers in India can catch the new episodes on JioCinema and Disney+ Hotstar, streaming from 6:30 AM IST from Monday.

This new chapter of The Last of Us has been helmed once again by co-creators Craig Mazin and Neil Druckmann. Episodes will air weekly every Monday (India time), with the second season featuring seven episodes—slightly shorter than the first season's nine. The opening episode is titled “Future Days”, while the titles and details of the remaining episodes remain tightly under wraps.

A Brief Look Back: Season 1 Recap

Set two decades after a deadly outbreak caused by a mutant Cordyceps fungus, Season 1 showed a world in ruins. The infection transformed humans into aggressive, mindless creatures bent on spreading the disease. The U.S. government collapsed, and the remnants of society were placed under military quarantine zones managed by FEDRA.

Viewers were introduced to Joel Miller (Pedro Pascal), a hardened survivor who loses his daughter during the chaos of the outbreak. Years later, he becomes a smuggler with his partner Tess. When a job goes sideways, Joel meets Ellie—a teenager carrying a secret: she’s immune. Tasked with transporting her across a fractured America, Joel and Ellie’s relationship slowly shifts from obligation to a powerful emotional bond. The season closed on a dramatic, morally complex note that left audiences stunned.

What’s Coming in Season 2?

Season 2 jumps ahead by five years, finding Joel and Ellie settled in a relatively peaceful community in Jackson, Wyoming. But peace is short-lived. As per the official synopsis, the duo faces new dangers and difficult choices, and their once-strong connection is tested.

Returning & New Faces

Familiar cast members include Pedro Pascal (Joel), Bella Ramsey (Ellie), Gabriel Luna ( Tommy), and Rutina Wesley (Maria). Newcomers include Kaitlyn Dever (Abby), Isabela Merced (Dina), Young Mazino (Jesse), and Jeffrey Wright (Isaac), among others.

Season 3 Already Confirmed

HBO has already greenlit a third season. Co-creator Craig Mazin revealed that they’ve exceeded expectations for Season 2, aiming for even greater emotional resonance. Based on the The Last of Us Part II video game (2020), fans can expect darker themes, emotional turmoil, and morally ambiguous paths ahead.