Isabela Merced, who plays Dina inThe Last of Us, reflects on her character’s relationship with Joel and explains how it differs from the video game. The story ofThe Last of Ustakes place years after the Cordyceps virus turned much of humanity into zombie-like creatures. Season 1 of the critically acclaimed show was based on the 2013 video game of the same name, whereas theupcomingThe Last of Usseason 2will adapt events from the controversial second game.
In an interview withScreen Rant,Merced discusses how more of the relationship between Dina and Joel is shown inThe Last of Usseason 2 than in the 2020 video game. She points out that their relationship is hardly explored in the game, but claims they would know each other quite well since Dina is Ellie’s best friend. She even describes Joel as a “fun uncle.” Read Merced’s full comments below:
There’s a lot of creative liberties they took with, obviously, Neil’s consent, because I think they wanted everything to just be more well rounded. If she’s Ellie’s best friend, they would have interacted. And so this is an opportunity to see how and I think they have a very light, warm relationship, where he’s like the fun uncle, and she can confide in him, and he can confide in her. But mostly, you know their point where they really connect is their love for Ellie that they both have and share. And I think Dina, when we see her, she’s sort of noticing this rift between them and trying to mend that.
What Merced’s Comments About Dina & Joel Mean For The Last Of Us Season 2
Dina Will Be An Important Character
After the dramatic season 1 ending of the hit HBO show, Merced is a very important addition to thecast ofThe Last of Usseason 2. As Merced points out in her comments,there will be a noticeable rift between Joel and Ellie at the beginning of season 2. Because of this, Ellie will likely spend more time with Dina, who is not only her best friend, but also becomes her primary love interest. If the upcoming season faithfully adaptsThe Last of Us Part IIgame, then Dina will undeniably be one of the most important characters.
The beginning ofThe Last of Usseason 2 will see the characters safe in the town of Jackson. However, as teased in the trailers, it won’t take long for things to turn bad. Ellie’s darker side was already teased in season 1, and she will be looking for revenge. Since her relationship with Joel is complicated, Dina will be the one who can comfort her. Therefore, it’s good thatDina will not only have a special relationship with Ellie, but also with Joel.
Our Take On Merced’s Comments About Dina & Joel’s Relationship
It Will Expand The Source Material
I’m so interested in season 2 as it’sadaptingThe Last of Us Part II, which is controversial but also critically acclaimed. While some despise the sequel game, others love it. It will be interesting to see how the HBO series approaches the source material. Dina is one of the most important parts of the game, so it will be great to see her have an even bigger role in the show and have scenes with more characters inThe Last of Usseason 2.
The Last Of Us
Cast
The Last of Us is a post-apocalyptic drama series set two decades after a global catastrophe. It follows Joel, a seasoned survivor, who is tasked with escorting Ellie, a teenage girl, across a desolated United States, transforming into a harrowing journey of survival and companionship.
