gaming

McConaughey passed on Joel citing long-term commitment; Pedro Pascal stars

Matthew McConaughey declined the role of Joel in HBO's The Last of Us because the series would have required a multi-year acting commitment while he was focusing on writing and leadership roles in filmmaking. Pedro Pascal was cast as Joel and stars alongside Bella Ramsey (Ellie) and Kaitlyn Dever (Abby). The show premiered in January 2023, released Season 2 in 2025 and has Season 3 scheduled for 2027, making long-term availability a key casting consideration. Showrunner Craig Mazin explored McConaughey as an option but proceeded with Pascal.

• McConaughey turned down Joel because taking the part would have meant committing to the show for years while he prioritized writing and leadership work in film.
• Pedro Pascal plays Joel; Bella Ramsey portrays Ellie and Kaitlyn Dever appears as Abby in the series cast.
• The Last of Us Season 1 premiered in January 2023, Season 2 arrived in 2025, and Season 3 is scheduled for 2027, underscoring the multi-season commitment for lead actors.
• Showrunner Craig Mazin discussed McConaughey as a potential Joel but ultimately cast Pedro Pascal; Naughty Dog is said to be working on The Last of Us: Part III (unconfirmed) and is developing Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet.