gaming

McConaughey explains declining Joel in HBO's The Last of Us; Pedro Pascal cast

Matthew McConaughey explained why he declined the role of Joel in HBO's adaptation of The Last of Us. He ultimately passed on the part, which was given to Pedro Pascal. Pascal now leads the series as Joel, making McConaughey’s decision a key moment in the show’s casting.

• Matthew McConaughey declined the role of Joel in HBO’s The Last of Us.
• Pedro Pascal was cast as Joel after McConaughey passed on the part.
• McConaughey publicly explained his reasons for turning the role down.
• Pedro Pascal’s casting placed him as the series’ central lead and shaped the show’s main performance.