In the season 2 finale of HBO’s The Last of Us, the character Jesse, played by Young Mazino, meets a tragic end that has left viewers deeply affected. Jesse, who is portrayed as a loyal friend to Ellie (Bella Ramsey) and navigates the dangerous narrative alongside her and Dina (Isabela Merced), is unexpectedly killed by Abby (Kaitlyn Dever), a moment that emphasizes the brutal reality of the show’s post-apocalyptic world.
Mazino, who spoke about his experiences following the finale, expressed how he had prepared himself for Jesse’s fate during the audition process, even playing through the relevant segments of the video game to embrace the character’s trajectory. He noted a poignant moment in the second episode where Jesse comments on the unpredictability of life, foreshadowing his own demise—a reflection of the harshness of the world in which they exist.
The execution of Jesse’s death scene was carefully crafted, requiring specific choreography to convey the character’s sudden demise realistically. Mazino was eager to participate in the scene, emphasizing its significance for Ellie’s emotional journey and the overall narrative.
Despite Jesse’s death, there is speculation about his potential return in future storylines, as indicated by flashbacks presented at the end of season 2. The narrative structure allows for the exploration of past events, with the possibility that Jesse and Tommy (Gabriel Luna) will play crucial roles in further episodes. Mazino hinted at discussions with showrunners Craig Mazin and Neil Druckmann about the character’s ongoing journey, contributing to a sense of hope for fans.
Mazino reflected on the response from the audience, acknowledging the criticism regarding the adaptation from the source material. He encourages viewers to appreciate the series in its entirety, recognizing that like wine, the narrative may deepen and develop with time.
This experience has been pivotal for Mazino, marking a significant milestone in his acting career. He transitioned from stable employment to pursue acting full-time, navigating the complexities of the entertainment industry, including the impacts of the pandemic and the recent strikes affecting Hollywood. His journey has instilled a sense of gratitude in him, as he cherishes the opportunities he finds in major projects like The Last of Us and Beef.
As the series continues, audiences remain eager to see how the story unfolds and what lies ahead for the beloved characters, mirroring the hopeful anticipation that fans often hold for compelling narratives.