First Look at Abby and Lev in New Last of Us Season 3 Set Photos Following Casting Controversy

I get that casting announcements usually come after everything’s finalized, but a part of me held out hope that HBO might reconsider their choice of Kyriana Kratter as Lev in the third season of The Last of Us after seeing the fan reactions. Unfortunately, we’re now looking at a live-action adaptation where the trans boy lead from The Last of Us Part II is portrayed by a cis girl. We’ve also caught our first glimpses of her alongside Kaitlyn Dever, who plays Abby, during filming, which could be for the show’s final season.

The images are from the set in Vancouver, showcasing Dever and Kratter navigating through a gritty version of Seattle. HBO has been sticking closely to the game’s narrative, so it looks like season three will primarily delve into Abby and Lev’s storyline, especially after the less-than-stellar portrayal of Ellie’s journey in season two.

For what it’s worth, Kratter’s costume nails the look. Lev’s Seraphite coat, shaved head, and bow are all present, so the visual aspects are on point. Dever’s portrayal of Abby, however, still doesn’t quite capture the character’s imposing presence from the game. Abby’s casting has raised eyebrows, especially since Dever doesn’t have the physicality that the character is known for.

Showrunners Craig Mazin and Neil Druckmann, who stepped back from the live-action adaptation before season three, offered a weak justification for this choice, claiming that a key aspect of Abby’s design wasn’t essential because the TV format doesn’t require the same gameplay distinctions between Ellie and Abby. Abby’s strength was integral to her gameplay style, allowing her to engage in combat in ways Ellie couldn’t. While Dever is a talented actress, her casting still feels like a misstep.

It seems that the third season of The Last of Us will be its last, which is a relief since it means I won’t have to endure a fourth. I could argue that keeping the adaptation of The Last of Us Part II to just two seasons would have been the best way to honor the source material, but that opportunity has long passed.