Warning: Spoilers ahead for The Last of Us Season 2, Episode 6!
In the sixth episode of The Last of Us Season 2, viewers are treated to a poignant flashback that unravels the story of Eugene, deepening our understanding of Gail’s fury toward Joel following her husband’s tragic demise. Eugene, portrayed by Joe Pantoliano, makes his initial official appearance in this episode, shedding light on his relationship with Gail, which was marred by the circumstances of his death at Joel’s hands.
Gail, played by Catherine O’Hara, works as a therapist in Jackson, but the loss of Eugene has significantly affected her well-being. Despite her grief, she attempts to continue her work, including sessions with Joel, whom she resents due to the implications of his actions. The episode reveals the complexities surrounding Eugene’s death and provides insight into Gail’s emotional struggles, particularly as she navigates her interactions with Joel and Ellie after Joel’s demise.
The Reasons Behind Joel’s Decision to Kill Eugene
Eugene’s Fate Was Sealed Regardless of Joel’s Actions
In a flashback sequence during episode 6, Joel takes Ellie—who has long desired to accompany him—on her first patrol as she reaches the age of 19. This day marks a significant milestone for Ellie but quickly escalates into a critical scenario when they are alerted to Eugene and his partner, Adam, who are under threat from an infected attack.
Upon their arrival, Joel and Ellie discover Adam’s lifeless body being dragged by a horse and Eugene critically injured by an infected bite. Although Eugene is not yet exhibiting any symptoms of the Cordyceps infection, he is acutely aware of the gravity of his situation. With a poignant wish to say goodbye to his wife, Eugene persuades Joel and Ellie to return him to Jackson for one last moment.
Despite Ellie’s initial hesitation about this plan, Joel assures her he will stay with Eugene until she returns with their horses. However, Joel ultimately takes it upon himself to lead Eugene to a solitary and serene ledge, where he makes the harrowing decision to end Eugene’s life. As Eugene pleads to see Gail again, Joel counters with a haunting assertion: “If you love someone, you can always see their face.”With the realization that there is no hope for Eugene’s survival, Joel tragically shoots him to prevent him from becoming infected.
The Impact of Joel’s Lies on Gail During Therapy Sessions
Gail’s Anger Toward Joel is Justified
Ellie’s feelings of betrayal become evident as Joel fails to uphold his promise regarding Eugene. Compounding her frustration, Ellie has been grappling with Joel’s deception concerning the events in Salt Lake City, making this situation the tipping point of her discontent. When they return Eugene’s body, Joel fabricates a story about his death, suggesting Eugene took his own life and modifying his last words for Gail’s sake.
Initially, Gail is misled by Joel’s false narrative until Ellie steps forward, revealing the truth behind Eugene’s demise. Gail, already in a state of mourning, becomes visibly distraught upon realizing the reality of Eugene’s death, culminating in a moment where she strikes Joel in anger. This deeply emotional interaction sheds light on why Gail struggles to fully trust Joel during their therapy sessions moving forward. Given the circumstances, her reaction is understandable, and it is remarkable that she continues to see him, despite unraveling the truth about Eugene’s final moments.
Was Joel’s Decision to Kill Eugene Justified?
The Consequences of Joel’s Deceit
In the latest episodes of The Last of Us, the narrative suggests that Joel had little choice but to eliminate Eugene due to the inevitable outcome of infection. Facing a bitten individual, there was no feasible alternative—either Joel would end Eugene’s suffering, or someone else would have to face the grim task shortly after. Hence, Joel’s decision can be seen as a necessary evil aimed at protecting others, including Gail.
However, Joel’s approach raises critical questions about his moral integrity. By promising Ellie that they could return Eugene to fulfill his desires, he not only deepens the existing tension between them but also reinforces the divide by lying about the events leading to Eugene’s death. While it might have made sense for Joel to spare Gail the pain of the truth, he misjudged the impact of weaving a false narrative, especially with Ellie present. Ultimately, this situation illustrates how Joel’s choices have substantial repercussions, complicating his relationships with both Ellie and Gail in profound ways.