The upcoming sophomore season of HBO’s hit series, The Last of Us, has already sparked controversy due to Kaitlyn Dever’s portrayal of the character Abby Anderson. Dever’s co-star, Isabela Merced, revealed that the actress needed extra security on set because of the intense hatred directed towards her character. Some fans of the video game-based drama have expressed genuine dislike for Abby, leading to concerns for Dever’s safety during filming.
Abby Anderson, a soldier who becomes a rival to Ellie and Joel in the series, has faced criticism from some viewers for various reasons. Some have taken issue with Abby’s physical appearance and have even spread false rumors about her gender identity. There have also been complaints that Dever, the actress playing Abby, does not have the desired muscular physique for the role. This unwarranted criticism raises questions about the nature of fan entitlement and the toxic side of online fandom.
Despite the backlash against her character, Kaitlyn Dever has received support from her co-star Isabela Merced. Merced commended Dever for her resilience and professionalism on set, especially considering the personal challenges she was facing following her mother’s death from breast cancer. Merced emphasized that Dever’s dedication to her craft and the emotional depth she brings to the role deserve recognition, even in the face of online negativity.
In addition to Kaitlyn Dever and Isabela Merced, the cast of The Last of Us Season 2 is filled with talented newcomers. Catherine O’Hara, Jeffrey Wright, Danny Ramirez, Tati Gabrielle, Young Mazino, Ariela Barer, and Spencer Lord join the ensemble for the highly anticipated season. The combination of seasoned actors and fresh faces promises to deliver a compelling and memorable viewing experience for fans of the series.
With the premiere of The Last of Us Season 2 scheduled for 2025 on Max, anticipation continues to build for what promises to be a thrilling continuation of the beloved story. Despite the challenges faced by the cast, including online hate and personal tragedy, the dedication and talent of individuals like Kaitlyn Dever and Isabela Merced ensure that the new season will be a must-watch for fans of the original video game and the television adaptation.