The latest episode of The Last Of Us picks up after last week’s harrowing events, leaving fans grappling with the emotional toll. For newcomers and long-time followers alike, the brutality of Episode 2 hit hard, not just in the heart-pounding infected attack on Jackson but in the devastating loss of one of the series’ most beloved characters. Now, in Episode 3, the story shifts into full gear as we begin to see the aftermath unfold. (Spoilers ahead.)
Three Months Later
We start right after the attack on Jackson. Abby (played by Kaitlyn Dever) has brutally murdered Joel (Pedro Pascal), and the fallout is heart-wrenching. Joel’s brother, Tommy (Gabriel Luna), sits grief-stricken beside his brother’s lifeless body, his expression a mix of sorrow and disbelief. Meanwhile, Ellie (Bella Ramsey) lies in a hospital bed, recovering from injuries sustained during the attack, including broken ribs and a punctured lung. When she wakes up, wracked by the memory of Joel’s death, her screams fill the room, raw with pain. It’s a heart-shattering moment, and it takes sedatives to calm her down. 
Then, an unexpected time jump occurs. Three months pass. Winter’s harsh grip has loosened, replaced by the vibrant colors of spring. Ellie has been physically cleared by her doctor, but emotionally, her recovery is far from over. Before she can leave the hospital, she’s required to meet with a therapist, Gail (Catherine O’Hara). Gail remains a polarizing character, though her presence in this scene feels less jarring than in past episodes. She shares that Joel confided in her before his death, saying he believed he had wronged Ellie—but this didn’t align with her perception, as Joel also told her, “I saved her.”
Ellie reflects on this during their conversation, offering a vulnerable and unexpectedly mature perspective. She confesses, “Joel saved me so many times. I wish I’d been able to let him off the hook for whatever it was he thought he did. I guess I’m going to have to give myself that grace instead.” It’s a deeply human moment, tinged with regret and an undertone of forgiveness—not for Joel, necessarily, but for herself.
Ellie shares that the last time she spoke with Joel was after their tense exchange at the dance. She recalls seeing him on the porch the night before his death, wishing she had spoken to him. But, in a moment of wisdom beyond her years, she adds, “It’s not the last thing you say to someone that defines your entire relationship.” Her words are a poignant reminder of the complexity of relationships and the weight of unspoken moments. Gail clears her to leave, and Ellie steps into Joel’s home, now empty but heavy with memory.
Inside, she wanders through the rooms they once shared, sifting through objects that tell stories of who Joel was. She finds his wood carvings, his watch, and, under folded cloth, his gun. Each discovery feels like a farewell. Breaking down in tears, Ellie’s grief is palpable, her resilience now interwoven with vulnerability.
A Reunion with Dina
Just as Ellie seems lost in her emotions, Dina (Isabela Merced) arrives with cookies in hand, offering a small but heartfelt peace offering. Dina confesses she hasn’t told Ellie much about the attackers during her recovery, wanting to shield her from the pain. But now Ellie learns the truth. Dina reveals she knows most of the names behind the attack and confirms their affiliation with the Washington Liberation Front (WLF), a group operating out of Seattle. It’s a revelation that reignites Ellie’s determination and sets the stage for what’s to come.
When they bring this information to Tommy, he finds himself torn. The need for vengeance burns within him, but his responsibilities to the town, still reeling from the attack, weigh just as heavily. The tension is palpable as the characters wrestle with their next steps, each decision carrying the weight of love, loss, and loyalty.
Closing Thoughts
Season 2, Episode 3 of The Last Of Us delivers both heartbreak and hope in equal measure. The time jump felt jarring at first, but it allowed space to explore the depth of grief and the human need for closure and purpose. Ellie’s growth, however painful, is beautifully portrayed, and her moments of reflection give viewers much to ponder about forgiveness and healing. Meanwhile, Dina’s loyalty and courage shine through, adding warmth to an otherwise somber episode. The stage is now set for something big, and it’s clear the fight for justice is just beginning.
Stay tuned—we’ll discuss key differences from the Naughty Dog video game later in this recap. More spoilers ahead!
