HBO Sets the Stage for a Game-Changing E-Sports Drama With “Damage” — From The Last of Us Creator & Past Lives Director

In a groundbreaking move, HBO has announced the development of Damage, a new e-sports drama series from two of the industry’s most acclaimed talents — The Last of Us creator Craig Mazin and Past Lives director Celine Song. The series will be produced by A24, marking yet another exciting collaboration between the powerhouse indie studio and Song, one of Hollywood’s fastest-rising auteurs.

A Powerhouse Creative Team Behind Damage

Celine Song, who gained critical acclaim for her Oscar-nominated debut Past Lives and is currently earning praise for her latest film Materialists, is set to write and produce Damage. While plot details remain under wraps, the series will explore the high-stakes, emotionally charged world of competitive e-sports — a first for HBO and a bold thematic pivot for Song.

Joining her is Emmy-winning writer and showrunner Craig Mazin, best known for his work on HBO’s Chernobyl and the global phenomenon The Last of Us. Though Mazin and Song have not previously collaborated, they are linked through their creative association with Pedro Pascal, who starred in The Last of Us and Materialists. Mazin will serve as executive producer, lending both prestige and narrative muscle to the ambitious new series.

Why Damage Could Be HBO’s Next Big Hit

Even in early development, Damage already shows signs of breakout potential. Celine Song has proven to be one of the most emotionally resonant storytellers of her generation, bringing deep human complexity to every script. Her films blend intimacy and intellect — qualities that could set Damage apart from standard sports dramas.

The decision to center the show on e-sports also speaks to a larger cultural shift. Competitive gaming has exploded into the mainstream, drawing global audiences and spawning celebrity-level stars. Yet the world of e-sports remains largely untapped in scripted prestige television. If Song brings her signature storytelling to this space, HBO could be poised to redefine what sports drama means in the streaming era.

A Win for Original Storytelling

At a time when reboots, sequels, and franchise content dominate the entertainment landscape, Damage stands out as a wholly original idea. Song’s involvement signals a commitment to creative authenticity and emotional depth — traits that align perfectly with HBO’s legacy of character-driven storytelling.

Moreover, the involvement of A24 ensures a cinematic vision that values atmosphere, aesthetics, and artistic boldness. The studio’s long-standing partnership with Song appears to be growing, and Damage could mark a significant next chapter in that creative evolution.

Looking Ahead

While fans will have to wait for more details — including casting news and a premiere date — Damage is already generating buzz as one of the most anticipated upcoming HBO series. With Celine Song’s singular voice at the helm and Craig Mazin’s narrative expertise on board, Damage promises to be a fresh, emotionally gripping take on the underdog world of e-sports.

If Past Lives made you cry and The Last of Us kept you on the edge of your seat, prepare yourself — Damage might just do both.