Neil Druckmann, the visionary co-creator behind The Last of Us video game series and a key figure in its critically acclaimed HBO adaptation, has officially stepped down from his role as co-showrunner of the television series ahead of its highly anticipated third season.

Druckmann, who co-led the first two seasons of the show alongside Craig Mazin (Chernobyl), will no longer be directly involved in the show’s development. In a heartfelt statement, he expressed deep pride in the series’ success and the creative journey he embarked on with Mazin and the broader HBO team. “Bringing The Last of Us to television has been one of the greatest honors of my career,” Druckmann said. “But as Naughty Dog enters a bold new chapter, I must focus on what’s next.”

That “next” includes the upcoming original IP from Naughty Dog, Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet, which Druckmann is spearheading. The game is said to be a major shift in tone and genre for the studio, which has long been synonymous with cinematic action and character-driven storytelling. In his dual role as Studio Head and Head of Creative at Naughty Dog, Druckmann will be fully focused on game development for the foreseeable future.

Also departing the show is Halley Gross, co-writer of The Last of Us Part II and an executive producer on the series. Gross echoed Druckmann’s sentiments, stating that she is stepping back to “make room for future creative endeavors.”

Mazin Takes the Reins

With Druckmann’s exit, Craig Mazin will now serve as the sole showrunner for Season 3. Mazin, widely praised for his work on both Chernobyl and The Last of Us, has assured fans that the upcoming season will remain faithful to the spirit of the games. “Neil and I built this show together. His vision and voice are embedded in every episode,” Mazin said. “As we move forward, I intend to honor that legacy.”

Season 3 is expected to continue adapting the emotional and controversial storyline of The Last of Us Part II, with a central focus on Abby Anderson, portrayed by Kaitlyn Dever. Production is currently underway, with the new season slated for release in late 2026 or early 2027.

Fan Concerns and Industry Reactions

Druckmann’s departure has sparked concern among fans, many of whom viewed his involvement as a safeguard for authenticity. The first season of The Last of Us was lauded for its fidelity to the source material, emotional depth, and standout performances qualities directly attributed to Druckmann’s intimate knowledge of the characters and themes.

However, industry insiders and creatives close to the project have expressed confidence in Mazin’s ability to carry the series forward. “Craig knows this world inside and out,” one HBO executive commented. “The vision is still intact.”

While Druckmann will remain credited as an executive producer, his hands-off role means the creative direction of The Last of Us now rests solely with Mazin and the HBO team. For fans, Season 3 presents both an exciting and uncertain future.

Still, Druckmann’s legacy in both the gaming and television spaces is firmly established. From redefining storytelling in games to shaping one of the most successful video game adaptations ever, his influence on The Last of Us will be felt long after his departure.

As Naughty Dog turns the page with Intergalactic and HBO charts its own course for the post-apocalyptic saga.