For fans of The Last of Us, Kaitlyn Dever’s journey with the franchise is a fascinating “what if” story. Years before the HBO series became a cultural phenomenon, Dever was nearly cast as Ellie in a planned movie adaptation of the beloved video game. Neil Druckmann, the co-creator of the game and showrunner of the series, reportedly remarked on her “uncanny” ability to channel Ellie’s vibe, noting that she seemed to perfectly embody the character’s mix of toughness, vulnerability, and spirit.
Fast forward to Season 2 of the HBO series, and Kaitlyn Dever is now stepping into the role of Abby, a character who contrasts sharply with Ellie yet carries a similarly complex emotional arc. The casting has generated considerable buzz online, in part because many fans still feel that Dever would have been an ideal Ellie even today. The conversation is fueled further by the close age proximity between Dever and Bella Ramsey, who currently portrays Ellie. This has led to speculation that if the show had ever considered a recast — something that wasn’t necessary at the time — Dever would have been a compelling and believable choice.
Druckmann’s casting decision demonstrates both confidence and foresight. Kaitlyn Dever is widely regarded as a phenomenal actress, capable of navigating the intense physicality and emotional depth required for Abby. While she may not be playing Ellie, her performance as Abby is highly anticipated, and fans are eager to see how she brings nuance to a character with a morally complex and deeply personal storyline.
Yet the “what if” scenario lingers in the minds of fans. Many continue to imagine Dever as Ellie, and the thought underscores just how well she could inhabit a wide range of characters within the same universe. It also speaks to her versatility as an actor: the same qualities that made her a near-perfect Ellie are now expected to help her deliver a memorable, standout Abby.
Ultimately, Kaitlyn Dever’s involvement in The Last of Us franchise — from the hypothetical casting of Ellie to her official portrayal of Abby — highlights both the creative vision of Neil Druckmann and the exceptional talent of the actress herself. Fans may still debate the “what if,” but one thing is clear: Dever’s contribution to the series is sure to leave a lasting impact.
