HBO’s critically acclaimed drama The Last of Us has hit an unexpected production pause, raising questions among fans eager for updates on the show’s third season.
According to production listings in British Columbia, filming for The Last of Us season 3 entered a temporary hiatus beginning June 1 and is expected to resume on June 28. The show, which is being filmed under the working title “Calm Current” in Vancouver, remains on track to complete production later this year
The pause comes after cameras began rolling in March on the next chapter of HBO’s adaptation of Naughty Dog’s award-winning video game franchise.
Read more: The Last of Us Season 2 is brutal, beautiful, and burdened by its own ambition
Why has filming temporarily stopped?
Screenrant reported that scheduling decisions may have been impacted by logistical considerations around big international sporting events, especially impending World Cup-related activities.
The Last of Us is still in production despite the delay, according to industry tracking databases used by British Columbian film and television projects. Filming is anticipated to continue through late November according to the existing timetable, indicating that the break is only temporary.
A user on X wrote that the break in production is an usual practice during shooting. “Big shows take a short hiatus between shooting blocks. It’s so the incoming directors can prep with the crew. Totally normal.”
Some users also speculated a possible injury. Someone on X wrote, “Interesting. I’m not saying this is what it is but Usually when that happens, it’s because an injury, accident, or death happened on set :(”
However, HBO has not publicly offered a thorough explanation for the production pause.
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Abby takes center stage in season 3
The third season is expected to shift its primary focus from Ellie to Abby, the controversial yet central character portrayed by Kaitlyn Dever.
Season 2 adapted portions of The Last of Us Part II and concluded with major developments that set up Abby’s perspective as the next chapter of the narrative. If the HBO adaptation remains faithful to the source material, viewers will follow Abby’s journey through Seattle.
Recent set photographs circulating online appear to show Dever filming scenes alongside actor Kyriana Kratter, who plays Lev, a key figure in Abby’s storyline. Lev, a former member of the Seraphites, becomes one of Abby’s closest allies as conflict intensifies between the Seraphite religious faction and the Washington Liberation Front (WLF).
Reports also indicate that Michelle Mao has joined the cast as Lev’s sister, Yara.