The Last of Us
The Last of Us The Last of Us/Official X Account

HBO's critically acclaimed series The Last of Us will not return with its third season until 2027, sparking widespread rumours of cancellation among fans. The network confirmed the delay during a recent programming update, citing extended production timelines. The news has led to online speculation about the future of the show, despite HBO's assurance that Season 3 remains in active development.

From Video Game Classic to TV Phenomenon

Based on the award-winning PlayStation video game series, The Last of Us quickly became one of HBO's most-watched shows following its debut in January 2023. The drama, set in a post-apocalyptic America ravaged by a fungal outbreak, earned praise for its emotional storytelling, high production values and faithfulness to the source material.

Season 1 adapted The Last of Us Part I, following the journey of Joel and Ellie. The series attracted more than 37 million viewers per episode globally, winning multiple awards, including Primetime Emmys and Critics' Choice honours. Season 2, which aired from April to May 2025, covered the first half of The Last of Us Part II and introduced new characters while delivering major plot shifts.

HBO Confirms 2027 Release Date for Season 3

HBO content chief Casey Bloys confirmed that Season 3 will premiere in 2027, continuing the pattern of long gaps between seasons. As reported by Decider, there is still no clarity on whether the story will unfold as 'two more seasons or one more long season', with Craig Mazin still weighing the options. Production schedules for the series are complex, with location shoots, visual effects and cast availability contributing to the extended timeline.

Bloys did not provide specific filming dates but emphasised that the show's scale and storytelling ambitions require significant preparation.

Creative Shake-up Raises Questions

The delay coincides with major changes behind the scenes. According to Entertainment Weekly, Neil Druckmann, co-creator of the series and creative lead for the original games, will step back from his role in Season 3, leaving Craig Mazin as sole showrunner. This follows the exit of executive producer Halley Gross.

In addition to the leadership change, HBO confirmed that the narrative will shift focus to Abby, a character central to The Last of Us Part II. This marks a significant departure from the Ellie-centred storyline of earlier seasons.

Online Speculation Fuels Cancellation Rumours

News of the delay and creative changes has led to a surge in online rumours that the series might be cancelled. Social media platforms such as X and Reddit have seen increased discussion among fans concerned about the show's future. Some have compared the situation to other HBO productions that faced delays before being discontinued.

However, there is no official confirmation of cancellation. HBO has reiterated its commitment to producing Season 3, with pre-production activities reportedly ongoing.

What We Know About Season 3

Kaitlyn Dever has been officially cast as Abby, a role expected to play a central part in the upcoming season's storyline. While plot details remain under wraps, the series is likely to adapt the second half of The Last of Us Part II, exploring the consequences of Joel's death and the intersecting paths of Ellie and Abby.

Filming is anticipated to begin in the coming year, though HBO has not released an official schedule. Fans can expect new locations, expanded character arcs, and the same level of cinematic quality that has defined the series so far.

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