The Last of Us Season 2: Can It Dominate the 2025 Emmys?

After a widely acclaimed first season that earned 24 Emmy nominations and secured eight wins, The Last of Us returns to the Emmy stage in 2025 with even higher expectations. Season 2 has garnered 16 nominations across major and technical categories, signaling continued momentum for HBO’s hit adaptation of the iconic video game.

A Strong Showing in Key Categories

The Last of Us is nominated for Outstanding Drama Series, competing alongside heavyweights like Severance, Andor, The White Lotus, and The Penguin. Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey are also in the running for Lead Actor and Lead Actress in a Drama Series, respectively. While their performances were praised by critics and fans alike, the competition is fierce, with actors like Gary Oldman, Sterling K. Brown, and Elisabeth Moss also vying for top honors.

Guest acting categories could offer a breakthrough. Kaitlyn Dever and Catherine O’Hara have both received nods for their emotional and standout guest appearances, and many Emmy analysts believe at least one win is likely in these slots.

Technical Categories: A Safer Bet

Where The Last of Us shines most reliably is in its technical execution. With nominations in visual effects, sound design, prosthetic makeup, and cinematography, the show is expected to perform well in the Creative Arts Emmy categories. In 2023, Season 1 claimed awards in similar areas, and Season 2 has only expanded its cinematic ambitions.

The Numbers Game

Industry predictions suggest The Last of Us could walk away with at least six wins this year, primarily in guest acting and technical fields. Its chances in the marquee categories, like Best Drama or Lead Acting, are solid but not guaranteed, depending on how voters respond to more traditional Emmy contenders.

Conclusion

The Last of Us enters the 2025 Emmy Awards with strong momentum, particularly in the guest acting and production categories. While a sweep is unlikely given the crowded field, the show has a realistic shot at collecting multiple trophies and reinforcing its place as one of the most ambitious and emotionally resonant dramas on television.

Whether it can convert its acclaim into major-category wins remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: The Last of Us is far from finished making an impact on award season.