HBO’s critically acclaimed post-apocalyptic drama The Last of Us is officially returning for a third season — but it may also be its last. According to HBO’s Head of Programming, the upcoming season is “planned for 2027” and could serve as the final chapter in the series.
Originally adapted from the popular PlayStation video game by Naughty Dog, The Last of Us has been praised for its gripping storytelling, emotional depth, and powerful performances by Pedro Pascal (Joel) and Bella Ramsey (Ellie). The series quickly became a cultural phenomenon after its premiere in 2023, attracting millions of viewers and earning multiple Emmy nominations.
Speaking during a press interview, HBO’s programming chief revealed that while Season 3 is currently in early development, the plan is to wrap up the story in a way that stays faithful to the game’s narrative arc. “We’re incredibly proud of what the show has achieved. Season 3 is going to be epic — and potentially the final chapter,” he said.
Season 2, which is expected to begin filming in 2025, will cover much of The Last of Us Part II — the sequel to the original game. Given the game’s darker and more complex themes, fans can expect a deeper exploration of characters, including the introduction of Abby, a pivotal figure in the story.
While the show’s creators — Craig Mazin and Neil Druckmann — have hinted that the series could stretch into a fourth season, the HBO executive suggested that Season 3 would likely be the conclusion, unless there’s a strong creative reason to extend it.
For now, fans can rest assured that the story of Joel and Ellie will continue, even if it’s nearing its final stages. As we await more updates and the official release date, one thing is clear: The Last of Us Season 3 promises an unforgettable end to one of television’s most beloved modern sagas.
