The Last of Us Season 2's Abby Didn't Bulk Up Because HBO Didn't Need to Emulate Certain Video Game Mechanics, Neil Druckmann Says

HBO's adaptation of The Last of Us Part 2 will portray Abby differently than in the game. Showrunner Neil Druckmann explains that actress Kaitlyn Dever didn't need the same physical build because the show prioritizes drama over the game's action-oriented mechanics. Abby's formidable nature will be explored through her spirit rather than solely her physical strength.

Druckmann highlighted the difference in approach: "In the game, you have to play both [Ellie and Abby], and we need them to play differently. Ellie feels smaller, maneuvering around, while Abby was a brute, physically overpowering. That doesn't play as big a role in the show; it's more about the drama." Craig Mazin added, "There's an opportunity to explore someone physically vulnerable, yet spiritually stronger. Where does her strength come from, and how does it manifest?"

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The show plans to adapt Part 2 across multiple seasons, unlike Season 1's single-season adaptation of the first game. Season 2, with seven episodes, will conclude at a natural breakpoint.

The controversial nature of Abby's character has led to online harassment targeting Druckmann, Laura Bailey (Abby's voice actress), and their families. This prompted heightened security measures for Kaitlyn Dever during filming. Isabel Merced (Dina) commented, "There are people who genuinely hate Abby, who is not a real person. Just a reminder: not a real person."