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Joel Crossed a Line With Eugene Killing That I Can’t Justify

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HEADS UP: This piece may reveal significant plot points from the second season of “The Last of Us.” If you’re not all caught up yet, consider subscribing to ‘Max’ for a refresher. Enjoy your reading!

I’d like to address something straight-away: Being a parent is challenging, as we often find ourselves in situations where choosing between two difficult options seems inevitable. Many times, we strive to make the right choice, even when it feels wrong or when others, including our inner voice, advise otherwise. This observation arises from the fact that Pedro Pascal’s character, Joel Miller, made a hard decision in the second-to-last episode of The Last of Us Season 2, and I find myself struggling to understand his actions.

As a long-time fan of the 2025 TV show, which mirrors the original video games’ exploration of questionable choices, personal accountability, and the courage to bear the consequences, I must admit that I’ve always stood by Joel’s character since my early PlayStation days. However, in “The Price,” Joel took a step too far for me, and I find it hard to condone his actions or the way they were carried out.

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I Understand And Justify Joel’s Decision To Save Ellie From The Fireflies

Since my initial experience with “The Firefly Lab” mission in The Last of Us, notably revisited during Season 1’s finale, I’ve gained insight into Joel’s choice to protect Ellie from the Fireflies and halt their attempt to create a cure (with uncertain success rates).

Following the loss of his own child at the outset of the outbreak and subsequently finding new purpose when tasked with escorting Ellie cross-country, he was unwilling to bear the grief of another child’s loss. His feelings and self-interest (rightfully so) clouded his judgment, ultimately leading him to make a regrettable choice in retrospect.

Although the Fireflies’ efforts could potentially bring about a brighter future for society without the fear of cordyceps infection, it’s true that the enigmatic and morally complex smuggler, who some might find hard to support in this situation, acted according to his beliefs. I myself found myself siding with him even before becoming a parent.

In a different phrasing: Am I okay with him deceiving Ellie regarding the matter because he wanted to shield her from understanding the gravity of her role as humanity’s last hope and society’s dire situation? No, but I can comprehend his reasoning behind taking that action before heading back to Jackson, despite not entirely sharing his viewpoint.

However, Joel Killing Eugene Like That Crossed The Line

Towards the finale of Season 2, Episode 6 in The Last of Us, an unexpected turn occurred when Joel fatally shot Eugene (Joe Pantoliano). This incident unfolded as they were patrolling together, and it was a pivotal moment that deepened the already strained bond between Joel and Ellie. As the episode delved into their relationship through a series of emotional flashbacks, it became clear how events like this gradually widened the gap between them, going beyond the typical struggles of a father and daughter growing apart.

As death approached due to an infection, and with the knowledge that he would soon be executed, Eugene yearned for one final meeting with his wife. He sought this moment as a cherished farewell before venturing into the realm of the afterlife. However, his humble plea was rejected by Joel. Instead, Joel chose a more ominous and somber course of action.

Apart from killing Eugene, Joel’s actions went beyond what was acceptable. The line he truly overstepped was promising Ellie he wouldn’t kill the man before she met his wife, which was a lie. This deception was already problematic, but it got worse when Joel lied to her again on their journey to town, trying to get her to conceal the truth from Gail and others. He even lied to Gail herself. If Ellie, angered by the deceit and Joel’s questionable decisions, hadn’t exposed the truth, everyone else would have been unaware of Eugene’s final moments.

I Have Been Trying To Rationalize Joel’s Decision, But I Can’t

Ever since I witnessed Joel killing Eugene, I’ve repeatedly tried to understand his actions, but I just can’t seem to grasp his reasoning. Given Joel’s extensive experience with the infected and the knowledge that a fellow Jackson resident would have had enough time to return to town and see his wife before turning, one would expect him to act differently. Thus, I find myself puzzled as to why Joel took such drastic measures. Frankly, I can’t fathom his motive. Why did Joel do this? I’m still trying to figure it out.

He felt it was safer for Eugene not to turn right upon reaching the town, as a single infected could be managed by Joel and those at the gate. However, given that the second episode of this season demonstrated people’s ability to withstand large numbers of the infected, dealing with one should theoretically be easy. Essentially, he was adhering to protocol. Yet, considering the circumstances, Joel needed to show more kindness.

It Did Provide A Lot Of Context For Two Key Relationships, Though

Although I don’t share Joel’s choice, the heartrending flashback significantly enriched the understanding of two crucial relationships in The Last of Us Season 2. Initially, we learned why Gail held such animosity towards Joel, as her behavior during the first episode in April became more understandable. In the span between the episodes, we were left to infer what happened to Eugene. I had anticipated a grim outcome, but nothing could have prepared me for the reality of what transpired.

The occurrence also offered additional insight into the deterioration of Joel and Ellie’s bond, and it paved the way for their poignant emotional exchange following the tumultuous New Year’s Eve dance and Joel’s heart-wrenching demise shortly thereafter. While I can’t defend Joel’s decision, witnessing its progression deepened my understanding and admiration for the series as a whole.

As you’re currently perusing this text, it means that “The Last of Us” Season 2 has already ended, and we find ourselves in anticipation for seasons three (with hopes for a fourth) to unfold. In the interim, there are numerous intriguing video game adaptations on the horizon that will keep our excitement piqued.

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2025-05-27 14:08

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