Why Abby Killed [SPOILER] in The Last of Us Season 2 Explained

The long-awaited Season 2 of The Last of Us has officially premiered, launching into a seven-week journey that fans will not soon forget. From the first episode, the series takes a daring turn, showing the brutal death of Joel, a major character whose fate has left fans both shocked and devastated. This significant plot twist sets the stage for an intense narrative that dives deep into themes of revenge and loss. What led Abby to commit such a shocking act against Joel? Let’s delve into her motivations and the chilling consequences of her actions.

Heavy Spoilers Warning:

This article contains heavy spoilers about the story of The Last of Us Part 2 game and Season 2 of the TV show. Proceed with caution.

What Was Abby’s Problem with Joel?

In the video game, players gradually learn about Abby and her backstory, but the live-action series quickly reveals her motivations within the first episode. The season opens with Abby and her companions mourning the loss of Firefly members, setting a dramatic tone right from the start.

Slowly. When we kill him, we kill him slowly – Abby Anderson

So, what does Abby have against Joel? The answer lies in a heartbreaking twist: Joel had taken the life of Abby’s father, Jerry Anderson, the leader of the Fireflies. In a desperate bid to save Ellie, Joel slaughtered the entire Fireflies crew to prevent them from sacrificing her.

This loss leaves Abby devastated and determined to seek revenge. She vows to make Joel pay for the pain caused by his brutal actions.

Why Did Abby Kill Joel in The Last of Us?

A compelling sequel must deepen the story and explore the shadows of its characters. This time, the creators chose to make the hard decision of killing Joel in an exceptionally brutal manner. In the gripping climax of the season, Abby takes her revenge by ruthlessly attacking Joel with a golf club, an act that haunts both Ellie and millions of fans worldwide.

But if you pause to consider Abby’s perspective, it becomes clear. The anguish of losing a loved one can drive anyone to seek retribution. Joel made a choice to save Ellie, but that decision cost him dearly, culminating in his own death. He knew well the risks associated with his actions, as he once poignantly noted:

I guess no matter how hard you try, you can’t escape your past – Joel Miller

Ellie, who views Joel as a father figure, feels the weight of this tragedy. As she screams in anguish at the end of the episode, her reaction encapsulates the series’ exploration of vengeance and loss.

Season 2 delves deeply into laden themes: revenge, the perpetuation of violence, and the quest for redemption. While Abby’s actions may stir anger, understanding her motivations can shift our perceptions as the narrative unfolds in season 3. Until then, how do you feel about Abby’s drastic measures against Joel? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

Questions surrounding this storyline abound. For example, what makes Abby’s actions justified? Abby’s relentless pursuit of vengeance is rooted in her immense grief and loss, leading her to an unforgiving path. Also, why does Joel’s death impact Ellie so profoundly? As Joel’s father figure, losing him leaves Ellie grappling with heartache and fuels her trajectory throughout the series.

What are the overarching themes of The Last of Us Season 2? Central to the narrative are themes of vengeance, the cyclical nature of violence, and the hope for redemption. Lastly, how does this narrative compare to the original game? The show reveals deeper emotional layers as it adapts the game’s story, tackling its challenging themes head-on.

As you explore these themes and questions, remember to connect with the broader narrative threads that intertwine our favorite characters. Dive deeper and discover more insights at Moyens I/O.