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Bella Ramsey Praises Isabela Merced’s “Unhinged” Energy in The Last of Us Season 2
As anticipation builds for the return of the hit HBO series, The Last of Us, actress Bella Ramsey, who portrays Ellie, has shared her initial thoughts on Isabela Merced, a fresh face joining the cast for the highly awaited second season. Ramsey hinted that Merced, cast as Dina, possesses a uniquely “unhinged” quality that positively impacted the set atmosphere and their on-screen dynamic.
Anticipation Mounts for The Last of Us Season Two
The acclaimed drama, The Last of Us, is poised to make its return later this month, with devoted viewers eagerly counting down to its premiere. Following a tremendously successful debut season, which achieved a remarkable 96% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, expectations are elevated for the narrative trajectory after the gripping conclusion of the initial season.
The narrative will continue to explore the journey of Ellie, embodied by Ramsey, and Joel, played by Pedro Pascal, navigating the repercussions of past events in the years that follow.
New Characters and Plot Developments
While those acquainted with the original Naughty Dog game may possess insights into forthcoming plot points, the show’s creators have suggested the incorporation of notable deviations and novel elements. This expansion includes the introduction of characters from the game’s sequel, The Last of Us Part II, such as Dina, who evolves into a pivotal figure in Ellie’s storyline.
Isabela Merced will embody Dina in this television adaptation, and Ramsey shared her perspectives on collaborating with Merced, highlighting their substantial time spent together on screen, according to reports.
Ramsey’s First Impressions of Co-star Merced
Reflecting on her fellow actress, Ramsey remarked, “My initial impression of Isabela was her striking extroversion, especially in contrast to my own shyness. She cultivates an effortless environment, radiating humor and exceptional conversational abilities. Working with her is truly delightful. Her vibrant energy proved invigorating throughout the entire season.”
Ramsey further elaborated on Merced’s on-set presence: “Having someone with her disposition on set is invaluable; an individual who introduces a sense of levity and spiritedness. She is wonderfully uninhibited – in the most positive sense. And I am not. She assisted in encouraging me to relax somewhat; she undeniably embodies the spirit of the party.”
Merced, recognized for her roles in productions such as Dora the Explorer, Madame Web, and Alien: Romulus, is also slated to portray Hawkgirl in the upcoming Superman film directed by James Gunn.
Exploring Ellie and Dina’s Dynamic
Delving into the interplay between their characters in The Last of Us, Ramsey observed, “They (Ellie and Dina) achieve a genuine equilibrium, mirroring my dynamic with Isabela. Ellie possesses a somewhat guarded emotional nature, whereas Dina exhibits greater emotional openness.”
Ramsey further elucidated, “Dina unlocks a form of lightness within Ellie, reconnecting her with a sense of youthful joy and innocence. I deeply appreciate the organic unfolding and progression of their relationship.”
Expanding Cast for Season Two
The sophomore season will also introduce new performers, including Young Mazino as Jesse and Kaitlyn Dever as Abby.
In an intriguing development, Catherine O’Hara and Joe Pantoliano are slated to depict characters not present in the original game narratives, while Jeffrey Wright is confirmed to reprise his role as Isaac from the PlayStation sequel.
The Last of Us season two is scheduled to premiere on April 14 via Sky Atlantic and streaming platform NOW.