Everything You Need to Know About 'The Last of Us' Season 3: Plot, Release Date & More

The first season of The Last of Us was an event that transcended the gaming audience. The series received Emmy nominations, moved millions of viewers to tears, and proved that video game adaptations can be art.

The second season concluded in May 2025 with a dramatic twist: Abby killed Joel, prompting Ellie to swear revenge. Now, fans are eagerly awaiting the upcoming season.

Here's what we know about the third season, including its release date and whether it will be the last.

When Will 'The Last of Us' Season 3 Be Released?

The third season of The Last of Us is expected to premiere in 2027. Although the exact date has not been announced, HBO executives have confirmed that work on the season is underway.

The first season premiered in 2023 and the second in 2025, establishing a two-year release schedule for the show. The number of episodes in the new season is still unknown, but it will likely be similar to the second season with around seven episodes.

What Will 'The Last of Us' Season 3 Be About?

The third season will likely focus on the confrontation between Ellie and Abby. The creators plan to detail Abby's story, including her childhood, the death of her father (the doctor Joel killed in the Season 1 finale), her time in the Firefly squad, and her escape from Ellie and Dina in Seattle.

However, Ellie's story will likely take a backseat. Craig Mazin hinted that the third season will be more intense and suspenseful than previous seasons.

There is a possibility that it will feature standalone spin-off episodes, similar to the famous Bill and Frank episode from Season 1.

What Happened in the Finale of 'The Last of Us' Season 2?

The Season 2 finale left the characters at a critical juncture. Ellie and Dina traveled to Seattle to seek revenge on Abby, whose father was killed by Joel. Abby found and killed Joel at the beginning of the season, prompting Ellie to swear she would kill Abby.

In the final episode, Ellie confronted two of Abby's friends, but at the last moment, she decided she no longer wanted revenge. However, it was too late – Abby shot her.

Will Season 3 Be the Final One?

This is the main question, and it still has no definitive answer. HBO CEO Casey Bloys hinted that the project could end after three seasons. However, the showrunners have a different opinion.

Back in 2023, Craig Mazin suggested that the series could consist of five seasons. Then, in 2025, he said he needed at least four seasons to wrap up the story.

Perhaps the creators will decide to make the third season longer or split it into two parts without making the second part a separate season.