What Last of Us 2's Cut Hug Means for Ellie's Story

This revelation deepens fans' appreciation for the game's emotional pacing and shows how actor instincts can shape iconic moments. It also highlights the collaborative process behind The Last of Us 2'…

This revelation deepens fans' appreciation for the game's emotional pacing and shows how actor instincts can shape iconic moments. It also highlights the collaborative process behind The Last of Us 2'…

Key points - Troy Baker revealed The Last of Us 2's final scene was originally scripted to play earlier in the game. - Ashley Johnson felt Ellie wasn't ready to hug Joel, so the hug was cut from the scene. - The final scene features Ellie telling Joel she'd like to try to forgive him. - Baker had no idea the scene would be moved to the end until after production.

Timeline - During development: Neil Druckmann scripts the final Joel and Ellie conversation to occur before the game's climax. - During filming: Ashley Johnson decides Ellie wouldn't hug Joel yet, so the hug is removed. - After production: Troy Baker learns the scene will be placed at the very end of the game.

FAQ

Q: Where was the final scene originally supposed to be? A: It was scripted to play right before everything goes down, not at the end of the game.

Q: Why was the hug cut from the scene? A: Ashley Johnson felt Ellie wasn't emotionally ready to hug Joel, so she suggested leaving it out.

Q: Did Troy Baker know the scene would end the game? A: No, he had no idea until after production that it would be moved to the finale.