HBO has cast John Goodman, Ian Alexander, and Laura Bailey for the third season of The Last of Us, according to an announcement made by the network on September 26. The date marks the in-universe cordyceps outbreak anniversary that triggers the events of both the video game franchise and the television adaptation. Series co-creator Craig Mazin serves as sole showrunner for the upcoming season, which is scheduled to premiere in 2027.
New Characters and Video Game Connections
Goodman, known for The Righteous Gemstones and the upcoming Tom Cruise film Digger, will play Joey alongside Alexander as Paco. According to HBO announcements, the pair form a friendly duo who call themselves the “Heroes of the Highway.” Alexander previously voiced the character Lev in The Last of Us: Part II video game, though Kyriana Kratter plays Lev in the live-action series.
Bailey joins the cast as Elizabeth, described by HBO as a leader of the religious sect known as the Seraphites. Bailey also worked on the source material, having provided the voice for Abby in the second video game installment. Kaitlyn Dever portrays the live-action version of Abby. These casting choices continue a trend of bringing voice actors from the Naughty Dog games into the HBO adaptation, mirroring previous appearances by Merle Dandridge as Marlene, Jeffrey Wright as Isaac Dixon, and Ashley Johnson as Ellie’s mother.
Production Details and Returning Cast
Production shifts for the upcoming episodes as co-creator Neil Druckmann departs following the conclusion of season two. Mazin continues as the sole writer, executive producer, and showrunner. Season two concluded in May 2025, and while plot details remain largely under wraps, industry reporting indicates the narrative will focus heavily on Abby’s arc, a storyline where the Seraphites play a central role. HBO and Max Content CEO Casey Bloys stated in a recent interview that Mazin has planned the upcoming block as the final season, though network confirmation is pending.
Returning series regulars include Bella Ramsey as Ellie, alongside Isabela Merced, Gabriel Luna, Jeffrey Wright, Ariella Barer, Tati Gabrielle, and Spencer Lord. Additional new cast members joining for the third season include Jason Ritter as WLF soldier Hanley, Patrick Wilson as Jerry, Peter Sarsgaard as Amon, Li Jun Li as Miriam, Michelle Mao, Clea DuVall, and Jorge Lendeborg Jr., who takes over the role of Manny from Danny Ramirez due to scheduling conflicts.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will Season 3 of The Last of Us premiere?
HBO has scheduled the third season of The Last of Us to premiere in 2027 following the conclusion of season two in May 2025.
Who are the notable new cast members joining Season 3?
John Goodman, Ian Alexander, Laura Bailey, Jason Ritter, Patrick Wilson, Peter Sarsgaard, Li Jun Li, and Michelle Mao are among the notable new additions to the cast.
Are the new actors connected to the original video games?
Yes. Both Ian Alexander and Laura Bailey had prominent voice acting roles in The Last of Us: Part II video game, voicing Lev and Abby respectively.
Want more entertainment news and casting updates? Subscribe to our newsletter or explore our latest television coverage to stay informed on your favorite series.
Keep reading