HBO's zombie series The Last of Us was an instant hit when it premiered in 2023. In fact, it was so popular that HBO promptly renewed the show for a sophomore season after just three episodes had aired. Based on the beloved Naughty Dog video game franchise, The Last of Us chronicles the journey of Joel Miller (Pedro Pascal) and his unbreakable, profound bond with Ellie (Bella Ramsey). Beware Spoilers for the first season below!

In season 1, Joel was tasked with escorting Ellie — who appears immune to the zombie plague — across a post-apocalyptic United States to a group known as the Fireflies, who would use her immunity to develop a vaccine. However, when Joel arrives at the hospital, he learns that the process of developing a vaccine would ultimately kill Ellie. And so, while she's unconscious on the operating table, he goes on an emotionally fueled rampage and ends up saving her,...