"Abby's Physique in The Last of Us Season 2 Explained by Neil Druckmann"

The HBO adaptation of The Last of Us Part 2 will present Abby in a different light compared to her video game counterpart, according to showrunner and Naughty Dog studio head Neil Druckmann. In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, Druckmann and fellow showrunner Craig Mazin explained that actress Kaitlyn Dever did not need to bulk up for the role. This decision stems from the fact that Abby's physicality does not need to be as mechanically distinct from Ellie's in the series.

Druckmann emphasized the unique challenges in casting Abby, stating, "We would've struggled to find someone as good as Kaitlyn to play this role." He explained that in the game, players control both Ellie and Abby, requiring them to feel different in gameplay. Ellie is designed to be smaller and more agile, while Abby is portrayed as a brute, similar to Joel, capable of handling physical challenges more forcefully. However, Druckmann noted that in the TV adaptation, "there's not as much violent action moment to moment. It's more about the drama," indicating a shift in focus from action to narrative depth.

Craig Mazin added that this change offers an opportunity to explore a more vulnerable yet spiritually strong Abby, asking, "Where does her formidable nature come from and how does it manifest?" This exploration is set to unfold over multiple seasons, as HBO plans to extend the story of The Last of Us Part 2 beyond a single season. While Season 3 has not been officially confirmed, Season 2 will consist of seven episodes, ending at a "natural breakpoint."

The character of Abby has been a controversial figure, leading to significant online harassment directed at Naughty Dog employees, including Druckmann and actress Laura Bailey, who voiced Abby in the game. The abuse extended to Bailey's family, including her young son. HBO took extra security measures for Kaitlyn Dever during the filming of Season 2 due to concerns about potential backlash. Isabel Merced, who plays Dina in the series, remarked on the absurdity of the situation, reminding fans that Abby is a fictional character.

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