Isabela Merced‘s impactful role as Dina in The Last of Us season 2 has reinvigorated the series following the unexpected departure of Pedro Pascal’s Joel, with the show’s narrative shifting in bold new directions on HBO. Debuting as a central figure during the season’s darkest moments, Merced’s portrayal has earned admiration for its emotional intensity and refreshing chemistry alongside Bella Ramsey’s Ellie.
Merced Steps In as a Vital Force Post-Pascal
The closing chapter of The Last of Us season 2 left audiences stunned, mirroring the pivotal moment from the acclaimed sequel video game—the death of Joel, played by Pedro Pascal. Fans, already attached to the rugged survivor’s journey, mourned his loss, but the tragic development became an opportunity for the show to spotlight Dina, portrayed by Isabela Merced.
Dina’s character, already established as significant in the 2020 sequel game, emerged as a core pillar of the story after Joel’s demise. As other characters like Abby and Ellie continued to take center stage, it was Dina’s evolving relationship with Ellie that gave season 2 its emotional depth and resilience, preventing the narrative from losing its momentum in the wake of Joel’s absence.
Casting Dina: A Defining Choice for HBO’s Vision
Bringing Dina to life in a live-action format posed unique challenges, given the beloved status of Ellie and Joel. With Abby’s introduction—a narrative shift led by Kaitlyn Dever—attention was also drawn to Merced’s interpretation of Dina, whose bond with Ramsey’s Ellie brought a much-needed spark to the series’ post-Joel chapter.
From their initial scenes together, the dynamic between Dina and Ellie was clear. Their chemistry offered not just a substitute for the lost Joel/Ellie pair, but a new foundation for Ellie’s continuing journey. Casting Merced as Dina was a high-stakes gamble for HBO. Had the selection faltered, the show’s delicate balance might have crumbled. Instead, Merced delivered a performance that made her an integral part of the ensemble and, according to fans, a new highlight of season 2.
Isabela Merced’s presence revitalized the series, especially as the writing allowed for Dina’s lighter, more playful traits to surface in tense, bleak circumstances. These moments balanced the story’s weightier themes, enabling Dina and Ellie’s relationship to organically grow and enhance the emotional core of the series.
Dina’s Revised Story Deepens Intrigue After Joel’s Demise
As season 2 progressed, HBO’s adaptation stayed true to many elements from the game while also adding novel layers. One such enhancement was the newfound depth in Dina and Joel’s relationship, demonstrated in early episodes with meaningful interactions before his untimely end. Their connection amplified the stakes of Joel’s murder, as Dina was present with him during his fateful encounter with Abby.
Merced’s Dina reacted to Joel’s death with palpable emotion, motivating her to help Ellie seek justice. Her willingness to join Ellie’s dangerous trek to Seattle set the stage for their friendship to develop into a profound romantic partnership. This transformation was more gradual than in the source material, allowing Dina to emerge as an individual of substance rather than a secondary fixture in Ellie’s arc.
How Isabela Merced Elevated Dina Beyond the Game
While Dina’s foundational role as Ellie’s confidante and anchor was present in both the original game and show, Merced enriched the character with emotional complexity and increased autonomy. Her depiction infused Dina with strengths, vulnerabilities, and resilience that resonated deeply with viewers.
The adaptation accentuated Dina’s personal history, building on key aspects like her pregnancy and exploring the struggles she faced, including challenges relating to her sexuality and her mother’s reaction to her romantic feelings for both boys and girls. This expanded backstory gave Dina a distinct identity, making her journey as compelling as Ellie’s. She was not merely a partner; she became a multidimensional figure with agency and impact beyond her association with Ellie.
By giving Dina greater independence and moments to shine—demonstrating resourcefulness and courage against infected threats—Merced molded Dina into a fearless force, sometimes even rivaling Ellie as the standout young survivor. Audiences witnessed a character capable of thriving and evolving on her own terms, ensuring her enduring relevance in the series’ future.
Dina’s Future in the Next Chapter of The Last of Us
Looking ahead, all indications point to The Last of Us season 3 exploring Abby’s perspective, as teased at the end of season 2 and reflected in the narrative beats from the sequel game. This narrative switch means Abby, played by Kaitlyn Dever, will command the spotlight while the story unfolds during the same critical period previously followed through Ellie and Dina’s viewpoint in Seattle.
Despite expectations that Dina and Ellie may take a backseat in the next season, both Bella Ramsey and Isabela Merced are set to reprise their roles. Crucial questions remain unresolved, especially after the climactic events in the theater during the season 2 finale that saw Abby shoot Jesse. The fate of Ellie, Dina, and Tommy remains in the balance, inviting speculation and anticipation for what comes next.
In a recent interview with Variety, Merced confirmed her participation in the upcoming chapter, stating that filming will likely commence next year. While her role may not carry the same prominence as during her introductory season, her presence ensures Dina’s ongoing significance as a pillar for emotional storytelling and character growth within the world of The Last of Us.
The dramatic transformation of Dina under Isabela Merced’s stewardship has ensured the character’s central place in the HBO series. Her compelling performance not only filled the void left by a major loss, but has also paved the way for new stories and unforgettable moments for fans and newcomers alike.
