The long-awaited premiere of The Last of Us Season 2 has finally arrived, diving deep into the post-apocalyptic world fans know and love. While the series stays faithful to the source material, the showrunners are using the new season to introduce and expand upon characters and backstories that were not explored in the original game.
One such character is Eugene, briefly mentioned in Episode 1 through a powerful scene involving a new character named Gail.
Who Is Gail in The Last of Us Season 2?
Gail, portrayed by Catherine O’Hara, is an original character created for the HBO adaptation. In Episode 1 of Season 2, she is introduced as a psychologist helping Joel cope with his emotional struggles following his decision to save Ellie. During their intense conversation, Gail reveals that it’s her 41st birthday, and for the first time, she’s spending it without her husband—Eugene.
Source: Max
As the scene progresses, Gail confesses that Joel is responsible for Eugene’s death. While no explicit details are given, this new addition adds significant emotional weight and foreshadowing for what’s to come.
What Happened Between Joel and Eugene?
Although the show avoids detailing the exact event, Gail’s dialogue implies that Joel ended Eugene’s life—possibly to save others or as a mercy kill. This layered backstory opens the door for a potential flashback episode or deeper exploration in later episodes.
Gail’s hatred for Joel and her emotional conflict suggest that Eugene’s story will play a bigger role throughout Season 2. Her presence feels too important to be limited to a single episode, hinting at more confrontations and revelations.
Who Is Eugene in The Last of Us Video Game?
For fans familiar with the game, Eugene is not a stranger. In The Last of Us Part II, Eugene is referenced multiple times. He was a member of the Fireflies and a close associate of Tommy, Joel’s brother. According to in-game lore, Eugene left behind his wife Claire and his daughter, eventually dying at the age of 73 from a stroke.
However, the show appears to be reimagining Eugene’s role, possibly tying his fate more directly to Joel’s actions. The casting of actor Joe Pantoliano to portray Eugene in upcoming episodes confirms that the character will receive expanded development in the show.
Source: Max
We can expect that Eugene will appear in future episodes through flashbacks or possibly as part of a subplot that explores his life before his death. His relationship with Gail, his ties to Joel, and the emotional fallout will likely become a central thread.