Overview of Laura Bailey’s Role as Abby in The Last of Us Part 2
- Laura Bailey’s casting faced scrutiny due to her prominence in various popular roles.
- The decision to select her was driven by her distinct performance during auditions.
- Baily’s portrayal of Abby provoked strong reactions from fans, reflecting the divisive nature of the character.
The Last of Us Part 2 director Neil Druckmann shared insights in a recent interview, focusing on the casting process for Abby Anderson. Initially, there was hesitation to cast Laura Bailey due to her extensive resume and recognition in the industry. Selecting the right actress for such a pivotal character proved challenging, as the team aimed to balance familiarity with freshness.
Abby stands out as one of the most contentious characters in The Last of Us Part 2. Her morally ambiguous actions throughout the game, compounded by the narrative choices regarding her fate and relationship with Joel and Ellie, ignited debates among the player community. This narrative shift forced players to grapple with conflicting emotions as they transitioned from loving Ellie in the first game to confronting Abby’s role in the sequel.
Neil Druckmann’s Initial Reluctance to Cast Laura Bailey as Abby
During a panel discussion at DICE, Druckmann revealed to Cory Barlog, creative director of Santa Monica Studio, that Laura Bailey was not the initial choice for Abby. The concern stemmed from her notable presence in the industry—”she’s in everything, ” summed up Druckmann. This fame raised questions about whether her widely recognized persona could detract from the character’s authenticity, hindering players’ ability to connect with Abby on an emotional level.
However, after scrutinizing audition tapes meticulously, the team recognized Bailey’s unique ability to portray Abby’s multifaceted nature, capturing her vulnerabilities alongside her fierce determination. This shift in perception led to a consensus that Bailey had the depth to bring Abbott to life effectively.
The eventual decision to cast Bailey paid off significantly, as evidenced by the accolades she has received for the role, reflecting the profound effect her character had on the game’s narrative. Unfortunately, her portrayal also engendered controversy, with some fans expressing their displeasure through threats, highlighting the passionate divide within The Last of Us community. Despite the tumult, Bailey expressed pride in her work and an eagerness to reprise the role of Abby Anderson if given the chance.
Leave a Reply ▼