One of Naughty Dog’s most popular franchises is coming to HBO.
According to an exclusive report by The Hollywood Reporter, a series based on The Last of Us is in the works from Chernobyl creator Craig Mazin. Writer and creative director Neil Druckmann will pen and executive produce the show.
“Neil Druckmann is without question the finest storyteller working in the video game medium, and The Last of Us is his magnum opus. Getting a chance to adapt this breathtaking work of art has been a dream of mine for years, and I’m so honored to do it in partnership with Neil,” said Mazin, who is a big fan of the game.
“From the first time I sat down to talk with Craig I was equally blown away by his approach to narrative and his love and deep understanding of The Last of Us,” said Druckmann. “With Chernobyl, Craig and HBO created a tense, harrowing, emotional masterpiece. I couldn’t think of better partners to bring the story of The Last of Us to life as a television show.”
Judging by the popularity of shows such as The Walking Dead, The Last of Us could be a huge hit for HBO. The series will be cover events of the first game, in which Joel and Ellie attempt to journey across a post-apocalyptic America that’s been transformed by the Cordyceps Brain Infection. It could also include content from The Last of Us Part II.
HBO has already hinted that more shows based on PlayStation properties are coming. “This is the first of many shows we intend to develop with our friends at PlayStation Productions,” said Chris Parnell, co-president of Sony Pictures Television Studios. The Last of Us is a brilliant achievement in storytelling and character development, and we are lucky to have the opportunity to work with this team to adapt it.”