The Last Of Us season 2 production starts up as writer's strike ends

Happy The Last of Us day to all who celebrate. For those who reside within the world of The Last of Us, 26 September is a pretty miserable date. It’s Outbreak Day - not a day I’d imagine you’d want to dwell on. For us fans though, it’s an excuse to celebrate the franchise.

In previous years, The Last of Us day has provided an opportunity for fans and devs alike to reflect on what the franchise means to them, whilst also hinting at what lies in its future. Later today, a special The Last of Us stream is due to be held but don’t get too ahead of yourself. Naughty Dog has already confirmed that it “will not be discussing any future game or TV show projects,” instead focusing on “art, merch, and more.” A The Last of Us Part III announcement or multiplayer update is definitely off the cards then, but it’s not all bad news. We do have an update on the long-awaited second season of HBO’s TV adaptation of the game.

Yet to dive in? Check out the trailer for HBO’s The Last of Us below.

As you’re probably aware, both the Writers Guild of America (WGA) and Screen Actors Guild (SAG-AFTRA) have been striking in recent months, bringing Hollywood to a standstill. This includes production on season two of The Last of Us which was delayed indefinitely amidst the strikes earlier this year.

The very excellent news is that the WGA has now suspended strike action after reaching a tentative agreement with Hollywood’s major studios. The deal remains tentative as formal wording is currently still being discussed in relation to drafting up new contracts. This means though that Hollywood’s writers will soon be able to return to work.

Updating The Last of Fans on Threads, showrunner Craig Mazin wrote, “Very proud of the WGA and its membership, and excited to get back to work on The Last of Us season 2. The strike has not yet been officially lifted, but the second it is, we will spring into action.” Strike action has been lifted since the post was written by Mazin. Mazin and Neil Druckmann previously teased that season two had been outlined, with one episode written so it’s likely that this week, the duo will resume efforts on the remainder of the scripts.

Season two was due to start filming towards the end of this year. That could remain on track if SAG-AFTRA members are able to strike a similarly satisfying deal. That’s yet to be achieved though, and we do not yet know when representatives from both sides are due to return to the negotiating table again.