As one HBO primetime sensation concludes its run—*The White Lotus* bows out—another steps in to claim the spotlight. Two years after the debut of *The Last of Us* on Max, the critically acclaimed adaptation of the hit video game returns for its second season, once again starring Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey.
Both the original game and Season 1 of the show end with a dramatic cliffhanger that sets the stage for intense developments ahead. For fans who have played *The Last of Us Part 2*, including myself, the anticipation is laced with a sense of trepidation. What comes next is powerful, emotional, and unforgettable. As IGN’s Simon Cardy notes in his review of Season 2, adapting the complex narrative of *Part 2* into a television format was always going to be a challenge—so it makes perfect sense that the story will unfold across three seasons rather than two.
Whether you're preparing to watch the Season 2 premiere or catching up on Season 1, here's everything you need to know about how and when to stream the next chapter of *The Last of Us*.
How to Watch The Last of Us Season 2 -----------------------------------------
### The Last of Us
2See it at MaxSeason 2 of The Last of Us premieres on Max on Sunday, April 13, 2025. Subscriptions to Max start at $9.99/month and can also be bundled with Hulu and Disney+.
Season 2 Episode Release Schedule
The second season will consist of seven episodes—two fewer than Season 1. New episodes will drop weekly every Sunday at 9pm EST / 6pm PST. Here’s the full schedule:
Episode 1: “Future Days” – April 13
Episode 2: TBA – April 20
Episode 3: TBA – April 27
Episode 4: TBA – May 4
Episode 5: TBA – May 11
Episode 6: TBA – May 18
Episode 7: TBA – May 25
Catch Up on Season 1
Missed the first season? You can stream all episodes now on Max. Individual episodes are also available for rent or purchase via Amazon Prime Video. Additionally, HBO has released a limited edition 4K Ultra HD steelbook for collectors:
### The Last of Us: The Complete First Season (4K UHD)
1Limited-edition collectible steelbook.$50.55 save 19%$40.79 at Amazon
Season 3 Already Confirmed
Exciting news: The Last of Us has officially been renewed for Season 3. While no release date has been announced yet, production is expected to begin this summer. It’s important to note, however, that a third game in the series is not currently in development. Naughty Dog remains focused on its upcoming title, Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet.
Adapting The Last of Us: Part 2
### The Last of Us Part 2 Remastered
1See it at PlayStation DirectSee it at SteamThe first season of the HBO series covered the events of the original Last of Us game with some creative liberties. Season 2 adapts the storyline of The Last of Us Part 2, which will be split across Seasons 2 and 3 of the show.
From IGN’s 10/10 review of The Last of Us Part 2:
"The Last of Us Part 2 is a masterpiece worthy of its predecessor. Taking strides forward in nearly every way, Ellie steps into the spotlight and carries the sequel in a manner that feels like the culmination of everything that’s made Naughty Dog’s blockbuster storytelling so memorable since the original Uncharted on the PlayStation 3."
Both games have received remastered editions, with The Last of Us Part 2 recently launching on PC. A new "Complete Edition" bundle featuring both titles will arrive this summer in physical form. In addition, Sony has released a special edition DualSense controller inspired by the series.
The Last of Us Season 2 Cast and Crew
Season 2 is co-created by Neil Druckmann, the original game’s visionary designer, and Craig Mazin (Chernobyl), who return as lead writers. They’re joined by Haley Gross, co-writer of The Last of Us Part 2. Each episode is directed by a different filmmaker, including Mark Mylod (Succession, The Menu, Game of Thrones), Peter Hoar (It's a Sin, Daredevil, Doctor Who), and Stephen Williams (Lost).
Here’s a look at the main cast returning and joining for Season 2:
Pedro Pascal as Joel Miller
Bella Ramsey as Ellie
Gabriel Luna as Tommy
Rutina Wesley as Maria
Kaitlyn Dever as Abby
Young Mazino as Jesse
Isabela Merced as Dina
Danny Ramirez as Manny
Ariela Barer as Mel
Tati Gabrielle as Nora
Spencer Lord as Owen
Catherine O'Hara as Gail
Jeffrey Wright as Isaac Dixon
Joe Pantoliano as Eugene
Alanna Ubach as Hanrahan
Ben Ahlers as Burton
Hettienne Park as Elise Park
Robert John Burke as Seth
Noah Lamanna as Kat
Some of these characters may be unfamiliar to viewers—that’s because Season 2 introduces several key figures from The Last of Us Part 2. Be sure to check out our full character guide for more details on who’s new and who’s returning.
