The Last of Us Season 3: Why Casting Derek Phillips as Jerry Anderson Could Save Abby’s Storyline

Warning: Spoilers ahead for The Last of Us Season 2 and The Last of Us Part II video game

The Last of Us Season 3 is set to make one of its most daring narrative shifts yet — placing the spotlight squarely on Abby, the divisive character who killed Joel. With fans still recovering from the emotional fallout of Season 2, the success of the upcoming chapter hinges on one crucial thing: making Abby's story resonate. And that emotional bridge could be built by casting Derek Phillips as her father, Jerry Anderson.

While Jerry made a brief, tragic appearance in Season 1 as the unnamed surgeon Joel killed, the upcoming season plans to expand his story. Jerry is no minor figure — he’s the emotional foundation for Abby’s brutal quest for vengeance. And if The Last of Us wants to earn the audience’s empathy for Abby, then they’ll need someone who can bring warmth, depth, and sincerity to Jerry. Derek Phillips is that someone.

Phillips voiced Jerry Anderson in The Last of Us Part II and brought such tenderness to the role that he became a standout despite limited screen time. Beyond the game, Phillips is a seasoned actor known for roles in Friday Night Lights, Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., and The Terminal List. With his face already resembling Jerry’s in the game, the transition to live-action would be seamless — and emotionally impactful.

This wouldn’t be the first time HBO taps a game actor for the adaptation. Jeffrey Wright will reprise his role as Isaac in Season 3. Adding Phillips would not only honor the source material but also give fans something familiar and emotionally anchoring as the story pivots toward Abby.

If HBO wants audiences to walk in Abby’s shoes — and forgive her for Joel’s death — they’ll need to show why she cared so deeply about her father. With Derek Phillips onboard, The Last of Us Season 3 might just pull off that impossible task.