The Last of Us is an American post-apocalyptic drama television series. Based on the video game franchise developed by Naughty Dog, the series is set twenty years into a pandemic caused by a mass fungal infection, which causes its hosts to transform into zombie-like creatures and causes the collapse of society. The first season follows Joel Miller, a smuggler tasked with escorting immune teenager Ellie (Bella Ramsey) across the United States. Guest stars include Nico Parker as Joel's daughter Sarah, Merle Dandridge as resistance leader Marlene. The series premiered on January 15, 2023, and received acclaim from critics.