Season 2 of The Last of Us has concluded, but the finale has been met with considerable criticism from longtime fans. Dissatisfaction is being vented across social media platforms, particularly Reddit, where viewers are expressing their frustration. Despite a promising start and the continued presence of Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey, many feel the show has lost its emotional depth, eroding audience trust.

In episode 7, Ellie (Bella Ramsey) confronts Abby (Kaitlyn Dever) in a harrowing encounter, fueled by Ellie’s grief over Joel’s death. Ellie seeks out Abby at the aquarium, leading to a confrontation. After a tense exchange with Jesse (Young Mazino), Ellie proceeds alone but is captured by the Seraphites. She escapes execution when their village is attacked. Inside the aquarium, the situation escalates. Ellie kills Owen during a standoff but unintentionally wounds Mel, who is pregnant. In a poignant moment, Mel pleads with Ellie to save the baby, but Ellie is unable to do so. Jesse and Tommy (Gabriel Luna) arrive to rescue her. However, peace is short-lived. Back at the theater, Abby tracks them down, killing Jesse instantly. Ellie pleads for Tommy’s life, but Abby is focused solely on Ellie, and the scene concludes with a gunshot, leaving the outcome uncertain.

The final scene shifts to Abby’s perspective on Seattle Day One, suggesting that the next season may rewind and focus on her side of the story.

Many fans have expressed disappointment with the season 2 finale. On the r/TheLastOfUs2 subreddit, users shared their frustrations regarding the storyline and Bella Ramsey's performance. One post titled "I hope we never have to sit through this crap again. TLOU deserved so much better than whatever this was" gained significant traction, reflecting the sentiments of disillusioned viewers. Comments included criticisms of the season feeling like a "teen drama" and disappointment in the casting and performances.

Amid the controversy, a moment from episode 4 has gained unexpected attention. Ellie’s line, “I’m gonna be a dad,” referring to her pregnancy with Dina despite identifying as a lesbian, has sparked confusion and accusations of forced wokeness. The line has become an internet meme, with threads like “I’m a dad playing a dad disguised as another dad” circulating online.

Despite the backlash, HBO has renewed The Last of Us for a third season. This implies further exploration of Abby’s story, the consequences of Ellie’s actions, and potentially new narratives beyond the video game’s plot. The release date for the new season remains unannounced.