During a recent event, Variety’s “A Night in the Writers’ Room,” creators Craig Mazin and Neil Druckmann humorously addressed a common misconception: that they killed off the beloved character Joel Miller, portrayed by Pedro Pascal, in the upcoming second season of “The Last of Us.” The discussion, moderated by Emily Longeretta, showcased a lineup of other prominent creators, including Dan Fogelman from “Paradise” and Ashley Lyle from “Yellowjackets.”
Mazin shared his experience of the immense pressure that comes with producing a second season, contrasting it with the unpredictability of the first. “When you’re making a first season, you’re just rolling down a hill on fire,” he quipped, noting the expectations that arise after a successful debut. Druckmann mirrored this sentiment, highlighting the risks and strong reactions they faced regarding story decisions, some of which led to misconceptions about Pascal’s character.
Mazin reassured fans about Pascal’s status, saying, “He’s alive… and he’s in literally everything else.” The panel also brought to light the strategic planning that goes into pitching show seasons, with Fogelman revealing his intention for a three-season arc for “Paradise.”
The conversation took a lighter turn when the topic shifted to the difficulties of maintaining a successful show. R. Scott Gemmill, with experience from “ER” and “NCIS: Los Angeles,” provided a refreshing perspective, stating, “I’m making a TV show,” downplaying the stress often associated with the creative process.
His offbeat humor continued to resonate with the audience when he suggested that laughter might be an antidote to the downsides of the industry, jokingly inquiring if anyone had tried ketamine.
As the panel concluded, it became clear that these creators, while facing significant challenges, remain passionate about their storytelling and the impact of their work, striking a balance between humor and the realities of their craft. With a shared understanding of the pressures they navigate, these writers continue to pave the way for innovative storytelling within the television landscape.