The Last of Us recasts key role ahead of season three

HBO's The Last of Us has recast a major character ahead of its third season after the original actor exited the series due to scheduling conflicts.

The post-apocalyptic drama, based on the acclaimed video game franchise, is set in a world devastated by a fungal outbreak that turns much of humanity into violent, zombie-like creatures. Bella Ramsey is confirmed to return as Ellie when the new season arrives in 2027. However, the role of Manny, introduced in season two, will no longer be played by Danny Ramirez.

Manny is a member of the Washington Liberation Front (WLF), the militant group that assists Abby, portrayed by Kaitlyn Dever, in tracking down Joel (Pedro Pascal), whom Abby blames for her father's death. With season three shifting its narrative focus from Ellie to Abby, Manny is expected to play a more prominent role in the story.

Actor Jorge Lendeborg Jr is going to take over the role. Ramirez reportedly stepped away from the series to honour commitments to other film projects. He is set to star in De Noche, a romance drama directed by Todd Haynes, which recently resumed development after Joaquin Phoenix's departure. In a notable twist, Pedro Pascal has since joined the film in the lead role, with filming due to begin next month.

Ramirez is also scheduled to reprise his role as Joaquin Torres in Avengers: Doomsday, slated for release in December 2026.

Co-created by Craig Mazin and Neil Druckmann, The Last of Us has yet to confirm whether the third season will be its final chapter. HBO president Casey Bloys recently indicated that the decision would rest with the show's creators.