Pedro Pascal, the beloved star of HBO's hit series The Last Of Us, has opened up about the deep connection he feels to his character Joel, a fiercely protective father figure navigating a harrowing post-apocalyptic world. As fans eagerly await the release of the much-anticipated second season, Pascal shared some personal reflections that reveal how intertwined his identity is with the complex role he plays.

In a recent press conference, the 50-year-old actor said, “I'm pretty fiercely protective. I'm protective of the people that I love. And I think that’s probably the main component that I relate to.” This sentiment resonates not just on screen but resonates with countless viewers who see themselves reflected in Joel's struggle to safeguard Ellie (played by Bella Ramsey), his young charge in a dangerous and dystopian landscape.

Pascal admits that portraying Joel comes with emotional challenges. "It’s this experience, more than any I’ve had. It’s hard for me to separate what the character is going through and how it makes me feel,” he revealed. “In a way that isn’t very healthy.” His honesty sheds light on the mental toll such intense roles can take, particularly in a series that explores profound themes of sacrifice, resilience, and human connection.

The critical success of the first season, which premiered in 2023, has delighted Pascal, who expressed his excitement about returning for another round. “I think there’s something that is really exciting about basically giving everyone another season of a show that everyone loved and that everyone has worked so hard on,” he said, emphasizing the dedication of the entire cast and crew.

Pascal also reflected on the therapeutic aspect of storytelling, especially against the backdrop of an apocalypse. He noted, “I think that storytelling is cathartic in so many ways. It’s the way that human beings have made testimony to life.” He draws a parallel between ancient forms of expression and modern media, from cave paintings to the current series streaming on Max.

As a child, Pascal absorbed lessons from various stories, stating, “My development is based on books I’ve read, movies I’ve seen, and television that I’ve watched.” He believes that the extreme circumstances depicted in The Last Of Us provide a unique lens through which to explore the human experience. “There’s a very healthy and sometimes sick pleasure in that kind of catharsis,” he continues, revealing the complex dynamic of witnessing human relationships amidst chaos.

With The Last Of Us set to deliver more gripping narratives and emotional depth when it returns on April 13th, viewers can expect to see both Pascal and Joel grappling with the trials of love and loss. This upcoming season promises to elevate the storytelling to new heights, exploring the very essence of what it means to protect those we care about in a world that often tests our limits. Prepare to be captivated once again!