‘Kaitlyn Was Within The Last of Us DNA’: Co-Showrunner Reveals Kaitlyn Dever Was Nearly Cast as Ellie in Scrapped Movie
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As The Last of Us Season 2 prepares to premiere next month, fans are eagerly anticipating the introduction of new characters, including Kaitlyn Dever’s Abby, a pivotal and divisive figure in the franchise. However, in a fascinating twist of fate, it has been revealed that Dever was almost part of The Last of Us universe over a decade ago—not as Abby, but as Ellie, the series’ beloved protagonist.
A Long-Awaited Role for Kaitlyn Dever
The Last of Us, HBO’s critically acclaimed post-apocalyptic drama based on Naughty Dog’s 2013 video game, has become a cultural phenomenon. Developed by Craig Mazin and Neil Druckmann, the series stars Pedro Pascal as Joel Miller and Bella Ramsey as Ellie Williams, whose father-daughter-like relationship forms the emotional core of the story. However, before the show became a reality, the franchise was almost adapted into a movie—and Kaitlyn Dever was at the center of it.
In a recent interview with GamesRadar, co-showrunner Craig Mazin revealed that Dever was originally considered to play Ellie in a scrapped The Last of Us film adaptation. Mazin explained:
*“Kaitlyn was within *The Last of Us* DNA because when she was younger, and [co-showrunner Neil Druckmann] and I were contemplating making The Last of Us as a movie, we considered casting her for Ellie. And when the show rolled around, she was no longer convincingly 14, I think it’s fair to say.”*
The Scrapped Movie and Dever’s Near-Miss
The Last of Us movie was in development in 2014, with Sam Raimi (Spider-Man) attached as a producer. However, creative differences between Sony and Druckmann led to the project’s cancellation. While Sony envisioned a blockbuster with extravagant set pieces, Druckmann favored a more modest, indie-style approach that stayed true to the game’s intimate storytelling.
Dever, who was in her late teens at the time, even participated in a table read for Ellie’s role, but the film never materialized. By the time HBO greenlit the series in 2020, Dever was in her mid-20s and no longer suited to play the 14-year-old Ellie. Instead, the role went to Bella Ramsey, who has since received widespread acclaim for her portrayal.
From Ellie to Abby: A Full-Circle Moment
While Dever missed out on playing Ellie, her casting as Abby in The Last of Us Season 2 feels like a full-circle moment. Abby is one of the most polarizing characters in the franchise, known for her complex motivations and pivotal role in the story. Dever’s versatility as an actress makes her an ideal choice for the role. Her ability to portray emotionally nuanced characters has been showcased in projects like Dopesick, for which she earned an Emmy nomination, and Unbelievable, which garnered critical praise.
Mazin emphasized that Dever’s connection to the franchise runs deep:
*“Kaitlyn had been part of the show because she was supposed to play Ellie. Although her character in *The Last of Us* Season 2 is in direct contrast to her supposed role over a decade ago, she is still playing a significant part in the show. However, this time, her role is contemptuous. Nevertheless, Dever remains a significant figure in the franchise.”*
Abby: A Divisive but Essential Character
Abby’s introduction in The Last of Us Season 2 is sure to spark intense reactions from fans, much like her debut in The Last of Us Part II. Her actions and motivations challenge players—and now viewers—to grapple with themes of revenge, empathy, and moral ambiguity. Dever’s portrayal will be crucial in bringing this multifaceted character to life, and her proven talent suggests she’s more than up to the task.
What’s Next for The Last of Us Season 2?
The Last of Us Season 2 is set to premiere on HBO Max on April 13, 2025, and will continue to explore the harrowing and emotional journey of its characters in a world ravaged by the Cordyceps infection. With Kaitlyn Dever joining the cast as Abby, the season promises to deliver the same level of storytelling excellence and emotional depth that made the first season a global sensation.
Conclusion
Kaitlyn Dever’s journey from nearly playing Ellie to embodying Abby is a testament to her enduring connection to The Last of Us franchise. Her casting as Abby not only highlights her versatility as an actress but also underscores the show’s commitment to delivering complex, compelling characters. As fans prepare for the premiere of Season 2, one thing is certain: Dever’s performance will be a standout, adding another layer of depth to this already rich and unforgettable story. The wait is almost over—prepare to return to the world of The Last of Us.
