In shocking news, the series director and co-creator of The Last of Us, Neil Druckmann, is stepping away from the HBO adaptation ahead of the third season.
Announced in a statement on Naughty Dog’s Instagram account, Druckmann said: “I’ve made the difficult decision to step away from my creative involvement in The Last of Us on HBO. With work completed on season 2 and before any meaningful works starts on season 3, now is the right time for me to transition my complete focus to Naughty Dog and its future projects, including writing and directing our exciting next game, Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet, along with my responsibilities as Studio Head and Head of Creative”
“Co-creating the show has been a career highlight. It’s been an honor to work alongside Craig Mazin to executive produce, direct and write on the last two seasons. I’m deeply thankful for the thoughtful approach and dedication the talented cast and crew took to adapting The Last of Us Part I and the continued adaptation of The Last of Us Part II.”
Much like The Last of Us Part II game, the second season of the HBO adaptation has faced significant criticism from fans and viewers alike. Criticism ranged from the show’s deviations from the source material to the poor writing and butchered motivations of its core characters, leading to a staggering drop in viewership in season two compared to season one.
As a result of Druckmann’s sudden departure to focus on Naughty Dog’s next game, Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet — announced at last year’s Game Awards — we will have to wait and see how Craig Mazin approaches the next two seasons of the television show.
About the Author
Jarrod Harrison
he/they
Philosopher, avid gamer, and miniature painter. Jarrod is a lover of JRPG’s, connoisseur of all things horror, and professional Last of Us Part II defender.
