The Last of Us HBO: Neil Druckmann Abandons the Series to Pursue a Bold New Project
Neil Druckmann is stepping away from HBO’s adaptation of The Last of Us to focus all his energy on his next interstellar epic.
As season 2 of The Last of Us has just wrapped up, the future of the series — though widely praised for its ability to reinvent itself and go beyond the original game — already seems uncertain. Neil Druckmann, the iconic creator and creative force behind the adaptation, has decided to leave his role as showrunner to fully devote himself to Naughty Dog’s next big video game adventures.
Image credit: HBO
A decision shaking up both Hollywood and gaming
After co-creating and shaping the first two seasons of The Last of Us for HBO, Neil Druckmann has announced he is stepping away from the series. “Now that work on season 2 is done, and before season 3 fully enters production, this is the perfect time for me to refocus on Naughty Dog,” he shared.
— Naughty Dog (@Naughty_Dog) July 2, 2025
From now on, Craig Mazin will helm the TV adaptation solo. He will face the major challenge of bringing the dramatic conclusion of The Last of Us Part II to life, with a third season promising to delve deeper into Abby’s character, portrayed by the talented Kaitlyn Dever. A major transition that could significantly reshape the creative balance of the show…
A farewell to return… somewhere new
While Neil Druckmann closes the chapter of The Last of Us on TV, he’s opening a brand-new, intriguing chapter in gaming. His upcoming flagship project, Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet, is already shaping up to be a monumental, enigmatic, and boldly ambitious adventure. Druckmann will serve as both writer and director, while also fully embracing his roles as Studio Head and Head of Creative at Naughty Dog, further cementing his creative influence on the studio’s future.
With this new title, Naughty Dog is radically reinventing itself, moving away from the intimate, post-apocalyptic universe of The Last of Us. Intergalactic will feature a brand-new RPG progression system and a more open world inspired by titles like Elden Ring, offering players a level of freedom and depth never before seen from the studio. A true sci-fi UFO, Intergalactic promises a journey as spectacular as it is unexpected, ready to redefine the limits of modern gaming adventures.
In addition to Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet, Druckmann revealed that a secret game is currently in development at the studio. While he won’t be directing it directly, he will play a key role as producer and mentor, guiding a parallel team and sharing his creative vision.
A new chapter for Naughty Dog and its fans
This departure may mark the end of an era for the TV series, but above all it opens up an exciting new chapter for gaming fans. The Last of Us has already transformed the industry and redefined the standards of interactive storytelling; now, all eyes are on Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet and the other mysterious projects quietly taking shape behind the scenes at Naughty Dog.
One thing is certain: Druckmann hasn’t said his last word. And we, as passionate players, are already eagerly waiting to see just how far he’ll take us next.
