HBO’s The Last of Us is proving to be unstoppable, even before Season 2 hits screens. The latest trailer for the upcoming season has shattered records, becoming the most-watched trailer for a Max original series within just three days of its release. Pulling in 158 million views across platforms, it marked a staggering 160% increase from previous trailers, reinforcing the series’ position as one of HBO’s biggest hits.
With Season 1 already securing its status as a television phenomenon, the second chapter is poised to push the story even further. Taking a five-year leap forward, the upcoming season will see Joel and Ellie navigating a world that has only grown more treacherous. The latest trailer offers a glimpse into the evolving threats awaiting the characters, including a moment where Ellie encounters an infected releasing airborne spores, hinting at new dangers that weren’t present in the first season. With its commitment to expanding the world beyond the source material, Season 2 looks set to offer surprises for both long-time fans of the video game and new audiences.
Season 1 made a lasting impression not just for its faithful adaptation but also for the way it expanded certain characters’ stories. Episode 3, Long, Long Time, became a standout moment by fleshing out Bill and Frank’s relationship in a way that differed from the original game. The second season appears to be following a similar approach, introducing new characters and moments that could reshape expectations. One addition, in particular, has the potential to reveal aspects of Joel’s past that have yet to be explored, setting up emotional stakes that might challenge viewers’ perceptions of his actions.
Audience engagement has been on an upward trajectory since the show’s debut. Premiering in 2023 with 4.7 million viewers, the first season quickly saw an increase, with the second episode jumping to 5.7 million. By the time the finale aired, the series had reached 8.2 million viewers, solidifying its status as one of HBO’s biggest successes. Given these numbers, The Last of Us season two could surpass even House of the Dragon’s premiere, a feat that would place it at the top of the network’s rankings.
While HBO has yet to officially confirm a third season, the latest trailer’s record-breaking performance signals strong demand for the series to continue. Co-creators Craig Mazin and Neil Druckmann have already hinted at plans extending beyond multiple seasons, indicating that if momentum continues, The Last of Us could have a long future ahead.
The Last of Us Season 2 debuts 14 April on Max.
Natalie is a big fan of anything related to movies, TV shows, and anime — you name it. When she’s not reading or being a dedicated cinephile, she’s probably playing gacha and tabletop games, or daydreaming of Caleb from Love and Deepspace.
Kevin Low
