Neil Druckmann announced on Wednesday (July 2) that he is stepping away from the direct production of HBO’s adaptation of ‘The Last of Us.’ He said he is focusing on developing his next game, ‘Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet.’
“Co-creating the series was one of the most significant moments of my career,” Druckmann said in a statement.
He spoke about the importance of working alongside Craig Mazin, of ‘Chernobyl’ fame, as director and writer.
“I am immensely grateful for the careful approach and dedication of the talented cast and crew in adapting ‘The Last of Us Part I,’ and for continuing to adapt ‘The Last of Us Part II,’” he stated.
Halley Gross, co-writer of ‘The Last of Us Part II’ alongside Druckmann, also announced her departure from the series.
Gross said in a statement that she stepped away for personal reasons and wanted to pursue other paths.
“I have some really incredible projects ahead that I can’t wait to share, but for now, I want to express my gratitude to everyone who brought Ellie and the world to life with such care,” she wrote on her social media.
Craig Mazin commented on Neil Druckmann’s departure.
“It has been a creative dream to work with Neil. I will continue working with our brilliant cast and crew to deliver the series our audience expects,” he wrote.
The third season of ‘The Last of Us’ will continue the story from the second game in the series, released in 2020.
You can’t stop this.
Season 2 of #TheLastOfUs premieres tonight on @StreamOnMax. pic.twitter.com/dYAE9DqmhH
— The Last of Us (@TheLastofUsHBO) April 13, 2025
Photos: X @TheLastofUsHBO. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
