- Abby’s physical change in the show sparks fan debate.
- Showrunners clarify the change focuses on Abby’s inner strength.
- Kaitlyn Dever to portray Abby in Season 2, raising curiosity.
The Last of Us Season 2 is going to hit the screens in April 2025, following season one. However, the change in Abby’s physical appearance has gained fans’ attention, and they need to know why her look is different from the game.
Why Abby’s Look is Different in the Show
In the game, Abby comes with the muscular physique that she has attained through intense training, and the spirit of vengeance is the real motivation behind it.
But in the TV series she won’t appear same which has created a buzz. Showrunners Neil Druckmann and Craig Mazin have now shared their thoughts on why this change was made.
Neil Druckmann explained to Entertainment Weekly that her muscular build was essential due to the demand of gameplay mechanics, he said:
“In the game, you have to play both characters [Ellie and Abby] and we need them to play differently. We needed Ellie to feel smaller and kind of maneuver around, and Abby was meant to play more like Joel in that she’s almost like a brute in the way she can physically manhandle certain things.”
Also, players had to play as both characters, having different playstyles; Ellie was more focused on agility, while Abby’s strength made her similar to Joel. Speaking of shows, it is not going to be the same as the game in certain aspects; the show isn’t concerned with the gameplay mechanics. Druckmann explained,
“That doesn’t play as big of a role in this version of the story because there’s not as much violent action moment to moment. It’s more about the drama. I’m not saying there’s no action here. It’s just, again, different priorities and how you approach it.”
What to Expect from Abby’s Character
Craig Mazin also shared that this change allows them to explore Abby’s character in a different way. In the show, they want to picture her inner strength; Mazin said,
“I personally think that there is an amazing opportunity here to delve into someone who is perhaps physically more vulnerable than the Abby in the game, but whose spirit is stronger,.”
“And then the question is, ‘Where does her formidable nature come from, and how does it manifest?’ That’s something that will be explored now and later.”
Kaitlyn Dever has been cast to play Abby in Season 2; although this has raised questions, creators are sure of their decision and her ability to deliver the best performance.
Season 2 will have only seven episodes; this has been stated previously by the showrunners, and it was also cleared that not everything will be covered in this one, the series can extend to season 3 or even 4.
While it is yet to be seen how well the actor will play as Abby, it is certain that these series have their own way to show the narrative and the characters.
