The Last of Us Season 2 Introduces Fresh Faces and a Persistent Enigma

The Last of Us Season 2 brings forth a number of new faces, such as Abby (portrayed by Kaitlyn Dever), a surviving member of the Fireflies, and Gail (Catherine O’Hara), who serves as Joel’s (Pedro Pascal) new therapist. While Gail has a direct impact on the current plotline, the memory of her late husband, Eugene, continues to loom over the season — even though he never appears on screen.

So, what insights do we have regarding Eugene?

Gail’s Remembrances of Eugene

During one of Joel’s therapy sessions, he compensates Gail with a bag of marijuana. She critiques its quality humorously, asserting that Eugene would have outdone it. “That never held Eugene back. January, February. That man could grow buds as large as pine cones,” she remarks, hinting at his gardening skills and determination.

Later on, when Joel remarks about her choice of whiskey, Gail discloses that this is her first birthday without Eugene in 41 years. The atmosphere grows heavy as she shares her sorrow — and her resentment.

“You shot and killed my husband,” she states to Joel. “You ended Eugene’s life. And I hold you responsible for it. No. Perhaps even more than that. I loathe you for it. I loathe you for it. And yes, I understand you felt you had no choice. I get that. I know I ought to forgive you. Well, I’ve attempted, and it’s impossible. Due to the manner in which you did it. And seeing your face, sitting in our home, fills me with such intense anger.”

What Prompted Joel to Kill Eugene?

While the complete narrative surrounding Eugene’s death is still shrouded in mystery, we possess some hints. Gail’s remark that this is her first birthday without him indicates that Eugene likely passed away within the last year. Her recognition that Joel “had no choice” suggests Eugene may have been infected — a frequent and heartbreaking circumstance in the universe of The Last of Us.

Nevertheless, Gail’s focus on how Joel killed Eugene hints that there may be more to the tale. Did Joel act too hastily? Was Gail unprepared to let go? Did Joel’s usually reserved demeanor make the act seem more heartless than necessary?

Regardless of the specifics, the emotional impact of Eugene’s demise — and Gail’s unaddressed fury — contributes an additional layer of complexity to Joel’s character and the season’s developing narrative.

The Last of Us Season 2 debuts on April 13 at 9 p.m. ET on HBO and Max.