Ellie’s Heartbreaking Tribute: The Last of Us Showrunners Reveal Grave Scene Change

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Viewers of “Game of Thrones” were deeply affected when Joel passed away in Season 2’s second episode, entitled “Through the Valley”. In the most recent edition of this popular HBO show, there’s a fresh yet tender and sorrowful shift in the narrative plot.

In an episode of HBO’s “The Last of Us Podcast,” creators Craig Mazin and Neil Druckmann discussed their reasons for departing from the established narrative of the video game series. Unlike in the games, a scene was added where Ellie leaves coffee beans on Joel’s grave. Druckmann, who was involved in the project, supported this alteration, stating, “If we’re going to change something, it should be exceptional. This is exceptionally good!” He expressed this sentiment through social media.

In the game, Ellie kneels at his grave and takes a handful of soil, seeming to find some connection with him through it, as stated by Mazin. The alteration in portrayal was intended to increase emotional depth. “She leaves him these coffee beans, a token of remembrance, for coffee held such significance for Joel that it had become scarce after the outbreak,” Mazin explained further. “A smile graces her face, subtly hinting at the beauty of this moment.

Now, the story takes on a more somber hue, and I believe it serves as a chance for us to bid farewell.” Mazin stated. “I think, as spectators, we find ourselves in much the same position as Ellie. Perhaps viewers have been eagerly awaiting this episode, but it’s been a challenging week following the tragic event. And when it starts, we’re all emotionally raw and vulnerable.

The Last of Us Showrunners Hint At Story’s Future

There are still a few episodes left in Season 2 of The Last of Us, and as we move forward, Ellie will carry Joel with her, even though he is no longer physically present. In essence, the creator hopes that viewers can empathize with Ellie’s feelings of heartbreak but also understand her resolve to honor Joel’s memory by seeking vengeance. Furthermore, Mazin shared a detail about Ellie and coffee beans – she dislikes coffee because she finds it tastes like burnt waste, and this reflects her character well.

Bella’s subtle gesture towards Joel serves as a stepping stone for her in dealing with her grief and moving forward. As Mazin put it, “The expression she makes there… it transforms, it’s no longer a shout of sorrow or a cry, tears glisten in her eyes but they don’t fall. This is a new phase of mourning,” he said. “Yet, she still touches the ground because I found it so poignant. And through this act, we can all bid farewell to him, and I felt that was essential to honor his memory.

New episodes of The Last of Us Season 2 air Sundays on HBO.

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2025-05-01 19:56