“Pedro Dying Is Just A Lot”: The Last of Us Season 1 Star Won’t Watch Season 2 Because of Joel’s Death

HBO’s The Last of Us has captivated audiences with its heartbreaking storytelling and powerful performances, especially from Pedro Pascal as Joel Miller. However, one of Pascal’s co-stars from Season 1 recently admitted they won’t be tuning in for Season 2 — all because they can’t bear to see Joel’s fate.

In a new interview, Lamar Johnson, who played Henry in Season 1, revealed that he’s dreading the emotional rollercoaster that comes with Joel’s inevitable death. The actor explained that although he’s a big fan of the show and Pedro Pascal’s work, it will simply be too painful to watch his character go.

“I loved working on that set,” Johnson said. “Pedro is incredible — so talented and kind. But I honestly don’t know if I can sit there and watch him die. Pedro dying is just a lot for me. It’s going to be too emotional, too heartbreaking. I might have to take a pass this time.”

Fans of The Last of Us video games already know Joel’s fate — one of the most shocking and devastating deaths in video game history — which Season 2 is expected to depict early on. Pascal’s portrayal of Joel and his chemistry with co-star Bella Ramsey as Ellie has won critical acclaim and established them as one of TV’s most beloved duos. That emotional investment only adds to the weight of what’s coming.

Despite his hesitation to tune in, Johnson had nothing but praise for showrunners Craig Mazin and Neil Druckmann and their careful adaptation of the source material. “They’ll do the story justice,” he added. “I have total faith in them — I just know I’ll probably cry too much if I see it.”

Production on The Last of Us Season 2 is already underway and is slated for a 2025 release. Pascal and Ramsey will return to lead the cast, while new additions like Kaitlyn Dever and Isabela Merced will round out the ensemble as new characters from the game make their debuts.

As for Johnson? He’s content knowing his time on the show was memorable — even if his heart won’t quite let him experience Joel’s tragic final chapter. Fans may need tissues for this one too.