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yesterday

The Last of Us Season Two Sees 18% Viewership Drop Despite Critical Acclaim

Creative shifts in the sequel’s storyline have tested audience engagement as HBO prepares a third season centered on Abby.

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Overview

  • Nielsen ratings show season two averaged 18% fewer viewers during its first five episodes compared with season one.
  • The season earned a 92% Rotten Tomatoes score, modestly below the first season’s 96% Fresh rating.
  • The season’s second episode featured a major character’s death that shifted the protagonist focus to Abby and polarized some fans.
  • HBO has renewed the series for a third season, with production slated to begin in 2026 and Kaitlyn Dever returning as Abby.
  • Adaptation challenges mirror game trends, as The Last of Us Part II sold just over 10 million copies versus more than 20 million for the original title.