The Last of Us Season 3 is on the way, but Neil Druckmann–who helped created the game’s universe that the HBO show adapts–is not going to be part of it. He dropped out after Season 2, saying he wanted to focus on his work at Naughty Dog. Bella Ramsey, who plays Ellie on the show, has shared more insight into the series going ahead without one of its key creatives.
Speaking to The Hollywood Reporter, Ramsey said that while Druckmann has exited the hit HBO show, he’s not really gone because his world will live on.
“I think he left us in such good stead. And he still will always be a part of the fabric of it–it’s literally his creation; the whole world. He’s still there, even though he is not. So I think it will be fine,” Ramsey said.
Also in the interview, Ramsey confirmed that they’ve seen scripts for Season 3 but haven’t read them as of yet.
Druckmann worked on the TV series as a co-showrunner, director, writer, and producer. This wasn’t the first time that Ramsey reacted to Druckmann’s departure from the TV show. In 2025, Ramsey said, “He’ll definitely be missed on set. But his spirit is the story.”
Druckmann announced his departure from The Last of Us in July 2025, saying he was stepping aside to instead focus on writing and directing Naughty Dog’s next game, Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet. Druckmann said co-creating the TV series was a “career highlight,” adding that he was honored to work alongside Craig Mazin on the series. For his part, Mazin is staying with The Last of Us for its upcoming third season, which may be the show’s last.
Season 3 will also lose Danny Ramirez, who played Manny in Season 2. He had to drop out due to scheduling conflicts; the role will be recast.