Neil Druckmann Confirms the Fireflies Could Have Made a Cure in The Last of Us

Neil Druckmann, creator of The Last of Us, has confirmed that the Fireflies could have made a cure in the game’s story.

Speaking on the Sacred Symbols podcast, Druckmann was asked, “Could the Fireflies make a cure?” He replied, “Our intent was yes, they could.”

Druckmann admitted the science in the story isn’t perfect, but it wasn’t the main focus. “Our science is a little shaky… but our intent was that they would have made a cure,” Druckmann added. “That makes the most interesting philosophical question for what Joel does.”

Was Joel a hero, a villain, or simply a father protecting his daughter? Fans have had mixed reactions — some always believed the cure was possible and weren’t surprised, while others are now rethinking Joel’s decision after finding out that the cure was, in fact, possible.

In a recent interview with Variety, Catherine O’Hara revealed that she won’t return in The Last of Us Season 3 because it will focus on Abby.

O’Hara said, “Craig [Mazin] did say definitely not this next season. It’s the Abby story.”

Druckmann also said that HBO’s The Last of Us TV adaptation currently has one or two seasons left, depending on what is best to tell the franchise’s remaining story.

Craig Mazin and Druckmann serve as co-showrunners of The Last of Us show, based on the critically acclaimed video game franchise developed by Naughty Dog for PlayStation. Both Mazin and Druckmann also write and executive produce the series.

Stars Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey are returning for Season 2, along with Gabriel Luna and Rutina Wesley. Season 2 also features Kaitlyn Dever, Isabela Merced, Young Mazino, Ariela Barer, Tati Gabrielle, Spencer Lord, Danny Ramirez, Jeffrey Wright, O’Hara, Joe Pantoliano, Alanna Ubach, Ben Ahlers, Hettienne Park, Robert John Burke, and Noah Lamanna.

The Last of Us Seasons 1 and 2 are now available on HBO Max.