Warning: Contains SPOILERS from The Last of Us Season 2, Episode 1
Catherine O’Hara makes a significant appearance in The Last of Us Season 2, playing a new character that diverges from the storyline of the original video games. Acclaimed for their compelling narratives and realistic character development, both The Last of Us and its sequel are celebrated as landmarks in video game history. As with any adaptation to television, the process often demands creative modifications, which can lead to enriching the story with themes or details previously unexplored in the game. The involvement of the original creators offers a unique opportunity to introduce new material that enhances the viewing experience.
Catherine O’Hara, a renowned Canadian-American actress and comedian, is likely familiar to many viewers from her appearances in classics like Beetlejuice, Home Alone, and the popular series Schitt’s Creek. In Season 2, she portrays a character named Gail, sparking curiosity among gamers since she is entirely new to the series. The premiere episode delves into Gail’s background, and leveraging insights from The Last of Us Part II, fans can glean considerable information about her character’s complexities and her significance in the unfolding narrative.
Catherine O’Hara Embodies Gail, A Therapist In The Last Of Us Season 2
Gail Serves as Joel’s Therapist in Jackson
Set in the Jackson commune, a sanctuary led by Tommy and Maria amidst a world plagued by infection, viewers are treated to a surprisingly civilized environment, particularly contrasting with the desolation encountered by Joel and Ellie in the previous season. The premiere reveals that Jackson boasts a tavern, an organized government, and a complex social framework managed by its residents. Against this backdrop, the presence of a therapist is logical, and O’Hara’s character, Gail, fills this important role.
During a conversation with Dina, who also appears in the adaptation though she originates from the game, we learn that Joel is undergoing therapy to mend his relationship with Ellie. The therapy session with Gail is intense and marked by stark honesty, complicated by personal biases. Notably, Joel compensates for the session with supplies obtained from his scavenging, further emphasizing the resourcefulness required in a post-apocalyptic society.
Gail Is An Original Character Not Found in The Last of Us Video Games
Gail is Eugene’s Widow, Unique to the Show
As previously indicated, Gail does not appear in The Last of Us Part II, continuing the trend established in Season 1 to expand the original narrative. Season 1 saw the introduction of Kathleen, who became a central antagonist, and it also substantially developed the characters of Frank and Bill, who had minimal involvement in the game. By introducing these characters, the series effectively enriched the plot, delivering new dynamics that kept even veteran players on their toes. O’Hara’s Gail, while a new addition, still maintains links to the game; she is unveiled as the widow of Eugene, a character referenced in The Last of Us Part II and the premiere episode.
In the game, Eugene had a spouse named Claire but became involved with the Fireflies, leaving her behind with their daughter. It appears that the TV adaptation reinterprets Gail’s backstory, indicating that she married Eugene post their meeting in Jackson, which preserves the essence of his original storyline while adding layers to her character.
The Circumstances Surrounding Gail’s Husband, Eugene
How Joel Became Responsible for Eugene’s Death
In the gripping premiere of Season 2, it is suggested that Joel took Eugene’s life during a patrol, leading Gail to harbor deep resentment towards him. This reimagines Eugene’s character from the games, where players only learn of his existence in flashbacks, tracing his life after a fatal stroke. Dina and Ellie later discover an abandoned library that Eugene had used as his hideaway—signifying his withdrawal due to isolation. Should the series continue down this path, it hints at potential fractures in Gail’s marriage to Eugene.
Among the items Dina and Ellie uncover in Eugene’s former hideout is a mix of his electronic tinkering projects and more scandalous items, such as a collection of adult films and a marijuana grow operation. Notably, the outbreak began in 2003, making Eugene’s possession and cultivation of marijuana even more taboo within the narrative. Flashbacks could unveil further details about Eugene’s life, especially since actor Joe Pantoliano has been cast to play him.
Understanding Gail’s Hatred Towards Joel
Gail Blames Joel for Her Husband’s Death
As in the video games, the television adaptation of The Last of Us delves deeply into themes of revenge and moral conflict. In her therapy sessions with Joel, Gail confesses to functioning in an adversarial capacity, driven by her animosity towards him as a result of his role in her husband’s demise. Although she understands rationally that her hatred may be misguided, her emotions tell a different story.
This character arc likely serves to analyze the internal struggles associated with vengeance. Throughout The Last of Us narrative, characters are faced with stark choices that force them to reconcile their instinctive desires for retribution with paths toward potential peace. Gail’s revelation resonates powerfully, illustrating how difficult it can be to resist the urge for revenge, even for those grappling with moral dilemmas.