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Pedro Pascal’s Joel Killed Off in Heartbreaking Scene
HBO’s The Last of Us took a dark turn in Season 2, Episode 2. Joel, played by Pedro Pascal, was violently killed in one of the most shocking moments in the show’s history. Though fans of the game knew it was coming, many viewers were devastated by how sudden and brutal it was.
The emotional blow came as Joel was captured by a mysterious group and murdered by Abby, portrayed by Kaitlyn Dever. As the scene unfolded, Ellie (Bella Ramsey) was forced to watch in horror, unable to stop it.
Why Joel Was Killed: A Painful Chain Reaction
Abby’s motive ties directly to the Season 1 finale. Her father was the doctor Joel killed while rescuing Ellie from the Fireflies. That act—meant to save Ellie—set off a domino effect that ended with Joel’s death.
This isn’t just a revenge plot. It’s about the consequences of love, survival, and moral choices. Joel’s decision to save Ellie has cost him his life, and now Ellie has to live with that burden.
Ellie’s Grief Sets the Stage for Her Revenge
The moment Joel dies, Ellie’s world changes forever. Her grief quickly turns into rage, and her character arc is now centered around one thing—revenge. This marks a major shift in the show’s tone, from one about protection and love to one about trauma and vengeance.
Bella Ramsey’s performance was raw and powerful, making viewers feel Ellie’s pain. Fans online called the scene “devastating,” “hard to watch,” and “unforgettable.”
Fans React: ‘I’m Not Okay’ Trends After Episode Airs
The episode triggered strong emotions across social media. Viewers were heartbroken, shocked, and even angry. Many said they weren’t ready to lose Joel so soon. Some praised the show for staying true to the game, while others felt emotionally unprepared for such a brutal twist.
On platforms like X (formerly Twitter), fans shared screenshots, quotes, and reactions. One post simply said, “I’m not okay,” a phrase that quickly trended after the episode aired.
A Bold Move That Changes the Show Forever
Killing off a lead character like Joel in just the second episode is a risky move—but it’s one that mirrors the video game’s storyline. HBO is clearly committed to telling this story the way it was meant to be told, no matter how painful it is for viewers.
The episode also highlighted a larger battle in Jackson as infected attacked the town. While the community survives, the emotional fallout from Joel’s death leaves a darker shadow over everything.
