Why Joel Goes To Therapy In The Last Of Us Season 2

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As a devoted fan, I can’t help but share my excitement about the new character introduced in Season 2 of The Last of Us: Gail, the therapist residing in Jackson, Wyoming. Portrayed brilliantly by Catherine O’Hara, this character was initially planned for Season 1, but unforeseen circumstances led to her debut being delayed. In this latest season, we’ll witness Joel, played by Pedro Pascal, stepping into the therapeutic realm – though it seems he might not always be entirely honest with this intriguing new figure in his life.

At the Season 2 premiere, writer Neil Druckmann explained to The Hollywood Reporter that he wanted Jackson to be more than just a location for Joel and Ellie. He aimed to develop Jackson as a community with its own unique character. This was because, much like in real life, everyone would likely need psychological support after the traumatic events they’ve been through during the apocalypse, making a therapist part of the community seem fitting.

Druckmann hinted at incorporating the character Gail, who is Eugene’s wife (portrayed by Joe Pantoliano from The Matrix), into the storyline. Although Eugene was mentioned in The Last of Us Part II, he did not appear on screen.

Neil Druckmann, a key creator, delves into the reasoning behind having the character Joel undergo therapy during The Last of Us’s second season.

— The Hollywood Reporter (@THR) March 25, 2025

At the premiere, Craig Mazin, the showrunner, expressed to Variety that O’Hara is “kind, affectionate, approachable, and down-to-earth,” also mentioning his satisfaction with the scene between Gail and Joel that he personally directed.

One of my favorite moments from the entire season is that particular scene, where two exceptional actors deliver outstanding performances. It’s almost as if you’re witnessing an intense fist fight without any physical blows. Instead, it’s all about their words, expressions, and emotions. I am incredibly proud of how well they pulled it off.”

This version maintains the original meaning while using more natural and easy-to-read language.

#TheLastOfUs co-creator Craig Mazin talks about working with Pedro Pascal and Catherine O’Hara.

— Variety (@Variety) March 25, 2025

In conversation with The Hollywood Reporter, Mazin shared that the concept of a therapist character in “The Last of Us” emerged from a brainstorming activity where they pondered over which occupations would prove beneficial for individuals during an apocalyptic scenario.

“Everybody’s who’s left is hurting. Everybody,” Mazin said.

Mazin hinted that there may be aspects of Joel’s revelations to Gail during therapy sessions that aren’t entirely truthful. He added, “People tend to think they’re always being honest with their therapists, but what about the pieces left unsaid? That’s where things get intriguing.

In a conversation about the second season of #TheLastOfUs, co-creator Craig Mazin shares his reasons behind having the character “Joel” seek therapy.

— The Hollywood Reporter (@THR) March 25, 2025

The Last of Us Season 2 premieres Sunday, April 13, and there are seven episodes in all.

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2025-03-25 17:39