In an unexpected development for fans of the acclaimed HBO series "The Last of Us," the role of Manny, portrayed by actor Danny Ramirez, will undergo a recasting for the upcoming third season. This change stems from scheduling conflicts faced by Ramirez, who has become a prominent figure in several high-profile projects, most notably within the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The announcement marks a significant shift for a character who played a pivotal part in the narrative of the show's second season.
Changes Ahead for 'The Last of Us' Season 3 Character Manny Due to Scheduling Conflicts
On December 29, 2025, news broke regarding a key casting alteration for the eagerly anticipated third season of HBO's hit drama, "The Last of Us." Actor Danny Ramirez, who brought the character of Manny to life in the second season, will not be returning to the role. The decision was necessitated by unforeseen scheduling clashes, preventing Ramirez from continuing his portrayal. Manny, a character introduced in Season 2, was described upon his casting in 2024 as a steadfast soldier with a cheerful exterior that concealed deep-seated pain and a persistent fear of disappointing his companions. As a former member of the Fireflies, a rebellious militia, Manny shares a close bond with Abby (played by Kaitlyn Dever) and assists her in her quest for vengeance against Joel (Pedro Pascal) for the tragic events at the Firefly hospital, an act undertaken to protect Ellie (Bella Ramsay). In addition to this casting news, co-creator Neil Druckmann, who alongside Craig Mazin served as a writer and director for Season 2, also stepped away from his creative duties for the third season to pursue other ventures.
This recasting decision highlights the intricate challenges of production in the entertainment industry, where actors' busy schedules can often lead to difficult choices. While the change might initially surprise viewers, it also presents an exciting opportunity for a new talent to inhabit the role of Manny and offer a fresh perspective on this complex character within the dystopian world of "The Last of Us." It will be interesting to observe how this new interpretation influences the unfolding narrative and the dynamics between the characters in the highly anticipated third season.