The world of HBO’s hit series The Last of Us is expanding in a major way. As fans celebrated ‘Outbreak Day’ on September 26—the pivotal date in the show’s lore when the cordyceps pandemic officially begins—the network dropped a massive casting update. Hollywood veteran John Goodman is officially joining the highly anticipated third season, alongside actors Ian Alexander and Laura Bailey.
Goodman, known for his work in The Righteous Gemstones and Digger, will be teaming up with Ian Alexander, who fans might recognize from Star Trek: Discovery. The duo is set to play characters named Joey and Paco, who describe themselves as the ‘Heroes of the Highway.’ Meanwhile, Laura Bailey, a familiar voice and face from Critical Role, has been tapped to play Elizabeth, a leader within the intense religious sect known as the Seraphites.
These new additions join a stacked ensemble for the upcoming season. They will be working alongside fellow new cast members Jason Ritter, Patrick Wilson, Clea DuVall, and Jorge Lendeborg Jr. Of course, the core narrative remains anchored by returning stars including Bella Ramsey, Kaitlyn Dever, Isabela Merced, Gabriel Luna, Jeffrey Wright, Ariella Barer, Tati Gabrielle, and Spencer Lord. With such a massive lineup of talent, the next chapter of the post-apocalyptic saga is shaping up to be one of the most exciting television events on the horizon.