Kaitlyn Dever Joins 'The Last of Us' Season 2 Cast: HBO's Post-Apocalyptic Hit Gears Up with Major Additions

Kaitlyn Dever, known for her role in "Dopesick," is set to join the cast of HBO's acclaimed series, "The Last of Us." The post-apocalyptic drama, based on the popular video game developed by Naughty Dog, is gearing up for its second season, and Dever is one of the three major additions to the ensemble.

In Season 2, Dever will take on the role of Abby, a key character from the game's sequel, "The Last of Us Part II." This character, portrayed by Laura Bailey in the game, is a skilled soldier whose uncompromising worldview is tested as she seeks vengeance for her loved ones. Dever's casting was confirmed following the end of the SAG-AFTRA strike in November, and she closed a deal with HBO, which is co-producing the series with Sony Pictures Television.

Pedro Pascal, who plays Joel, and Bella Ramsey, who portrays Ellie, are returning as series regulars alongside Dever. The show's co-creators, writers, executive producers, and directors, Craig Mazin and Neil Druckmann, expressed their excitement about Dever joining the cast and emphasized their commitment to finding world-class actors who embody the essence of the source material.

"Our casting process for season two has been identical to season one: we look for world-class actors who embody the souls of the characters in the source material. Nothing matters more than talent, and we're thrilled to have an acclaimed performer like Kaitlyn join Pedro, Bella, and the rest of our family," said the duo.

"The Last of Us" unfolds two decades after the collapse of modern civilization. Joel, a seasoned survivor, is tasked with smuggling Ellie, a 14-year-old girl, out of a restrictive quarantine zone. What begins as a seemingly simple task evolves into a harrowing journey, where both characters must navigate a devastated U.S. and rely on each other for survival.

Season 1, shot in Calgary, Alberta, featured a notable ensemble cast, and Season 2 is set to be filmed in Vancouver to align with the Pacific Northwest setting of "The Last of Us Part II." Production is scheduled to commence in February.

The series has garnered critical acclaim and recently dominated the Creative Arts portion of the 2023 Emmy Awards, securing eight trophies, including Guest Actor In a Drama Series awards for Nick Offerman and Storm Reid.

Kaitlyn's acting credits include her roles in "Last Man Standing," the film "Booksmart," and acclaimed limited series such as "Unbelievable" and "Dopesick." Her work has earned her nominations and awards, including an Emmy, Critics Choice, and Golden Globe nominations.