The Last of Us Season 2 Moves to Seattle, Unveiling New Characters

As The Last of Us Season 2 relocates its narrative from Jackson to Seattle, the plot introduces a variety of fresh faces to enhance the storyline. While viewers have previously met Abby (played by Kaitlyn Dever) and her faction, episode 4 of the season further broadens the ensemble with the introduction of important characters in Seattle, including the daunting Washington Liberation Front (WLF) leader Isaac Dixon, again portrayed by Jeffrey Wright—who reprises his role from The Last of Us Part II video game.

However, Isaac is not the sole newcomer. Episode 4 also presents a brand-new character crafted specifically for the HBO adaptation: Hanrahan, played by Alanna Ubach.

Who Is Hanrahan in The Last of Us Season 2?

Contrary to Isaac, Hanrahan is a character not found in the video games, making her debut a first for both viewers and gamers. Despite her limited appearance in episode 4, it carries substantial significance.

The episode begins with a flashback to Seattle in 2018, when the city was still under FEDRA oversight and the WLF operated as a secretive resistance rather than the structured militia they later become. This flashback also features a cameo from Josh Peck as a FEDRA soldier.

The scene revolves around Isaac, who is a FEDRA sergeant at the time, riding in a military vehicle that comes to a stop before a school bus obstructing the road. A group of civilians—WLF members disguised—approaches. Taking the lead is Hanrahan, unarmed and in ordinary clothing. She approaches Isaac and asks, “You Isaac?” Upon his confirmation, he inquires, “You Hanrahan?” She acknowledges with a nod.

In a startling twist, Isaac then throws a grenade into his own truck, resulting in the death of his fellow soldiers and indicating his switch to the WLF. Hanrahan greets him with, “Welcome to the fight.”

Though fleeting, this exchange unveils much. Hanrahan seems to have played a pivotal role during the WLF’s formative period, possibly even facilitating Isaac’s defection. Their mutual recognition hints at prior dialogue, even if they hadn’t associated in person before. Hanrahan may have served as Isaac’s link within the WLF, assisting him in orchestrating his betrayal of FEDRA—or perhaps she aimed to evaluate his loyalty through this ultimate act.

Regardless of the details, it’s evident that both Hanrahan and Isaac are crucial players in the WLF’s development. While Isaac currently leads the group, Hanrahan might still exert influence, and her introduction suggests a richer backstory yet to be revealed.

With the WLF significantly involved in Season 2, it’s reasonable to conclude that Hanrahan—and the intricate relationship between her and Isaac—will continue to unfold.

New episodes of The Last of Us Season 2 premiere Sundays at 9 p.m. ET on HBO and Max.

Interested in the games that inspired the series? Here’s how to start playing The Last of Us.