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Note: This story contains spoilers from “The Last of Us” Season 2, Episode 3.
The latest episode of “The Last of Us” illustrated the aftermath of a fierce conflict in Jackson, where the community grapples with the fallout from an infected horde attack and the decision to pursue Abby and her group for the brutal killing of Joel (Pedro Pascal).
Young Mazino, who portrays Jesse in the HBO series, remarked on Joel’s death, describing it as “exceptionally brutal.” He noted the intensity of revenge and the suffering involved: “I understand the nature of revenge and losing someone dear to you, but Abby really tortured and made it a gruesome, slow death, which I think was unnecessary.” He elaborated how this tragic event resonates with broader societal conflicts around the globe. “Joel’s death is a microcosm of larger human condition issues; the nature of revenge can consume one’s soul,” he reflected.
In the episode, which takes place three months later, Jackson is depicted as attempting to rebuild under Tommy’s (Gabriel Luna) leadership. Jesse plays a significant role in these efforts, emphasizing the importance of community in the aftermath of loss. Ellie (Bella Ramsey), recovering from an injury sustained in the previous episode, is depicted as being fixated on revenge against Abby, raising concerns among Jackson’s residents about the potential risks involved.
Mazino highlighted Jesse’s commitment to rebuilding the community, saying, “If anything, more than ever, community becomes more valuable because it’s the only reason why those people are alive.” Jesse emerges as a leader during this crisis, exemplified in a scene where Tommy allows him to take charge of a rebuilding task, suggesting a mentorship dynamic between them.
“Tommy’s realizing everything he has to lose – his family. He wants nothing more than to just be around for his loved ones,” Mazino explained. He interpreted this as Tommy preparing to hand over leadership to a new generation, showcasing Jesse as an equipped successor.
As Jesse faces the responsibility of being on Jackson’s council, he navigates the challenge of advocating for the community’s best interests, wrestling with the personal impact of Joel’s death. Although Jesse is bound by the rules of the council, he respects Ellie’s feelings and encourages her to express her thoughts constructively, telling her, “No one wants to vote for anger.”
Mazino noted Jesse’s internal conflict: while he deeply cares for his friends, he recognizes that the safety of the entire community must take precedence over personal grief. “The death of one person does not outweigh the safety of the entire community,” he remarked.
He further articulated that Jesse serves as a contrast to Ellie’s vengeful mindset, choosing to focus on community strength and recovery rather than dwelling on anger. “That’s a perfect Jesse response: to be level-headed, to counter losses and rebuild,” he said.
Discussing the challenges of portraying a character from a beloved video game, Mazino emphasized the need to honor the source material while also making Jesse his own. “I did my best to train physically and get the physicality and then I trust in the writing and directors,” he shared. He acknowledged the harsh criticism sometimes directed at the series, choosing to focus on his contribution and the collaborative process in character development.
The experience of filming Season 2 provided Mazino with valuable insights, particularly from his co-stars. He observed how they maintained lightness and humor off-camera, which helped balance the weight of their dramatic roles. “I just can’t wait to work on something similar, or Season 3, to put that to the test. What I learned was less brooding. Save the brooding for the scene and chill out,” he concluded.
“The Last of Us” airs Sundays at 9 p.m. ET/PT on HBO and streams on Max.
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