Unraveling the Season 2 Cliffhanger: Abby's Mysterious Absence

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The second season of The Last of Us has wrapped up, and calling the season finale eventful would be an understatement.

In episode 7, Ellie’s quest to find Abby escalates into total chaos, culminating in a cliffhanger that may leave some viewers scratching their heads—especially those who haven’t played The Last of Us Part 2. For those familiar with the game, you already understand that what seems like a cliffhanger isn’t much of one at all. If you’re in the dark about the Ellie and Abby dynamic or Abby’s whereabouts at the conclusion of season 2, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered.

Before proceeding, be warned: spoilers for The Last of Us season 2 are below, along with spoilers for The Last of Us Part 2. It might be a good idea to catch up on season 2 first. You may also want to check out our guide on The Last of Us season 2 ending explained.

What Happens to Abby at the End of The Last of Us Season 2? SPOILERS

The Last of Us season 2 adapts the events of The Last of Us Part 2, presenting two intertwined timelines from Ellie and Abby’s perspectives: Seattle Day One, Day Two, and Day Three for both characters, before returning to Ellie for the conclusion known as The Farm/Santa Barbara.

By the end of season 2, Ellie and Abby come face to face for the first time, leading to a deadly encounter. Abby shoots Jesse, then turns her weapon on Ellie. We then see Abby waking up in The Stadium with the WLF, where Manny informs her that Isaac is waiting. As they step outside, on-screen text indicates it’s back to “Seattle Day One.” Essentially, we find ourselves at the beginning again—despite the climactic ending, Ellie is still alive. The game’s take on Abby’s Seattle timeline shows what she was up to on the very day Ellie and Dina set out to look for her. Day Three mirrors the final moments of the season 2 finale but offers Abby’s perspective, with the player taking turns hiding from and hunting Ellie.

Though The Last of Us season 3 is expected to start three days earlier, it will likely return to that nail-biting final scene and culminate in the same spot, but from Abby’s angle. Given the cliffhanger, this next season will probably delve deeper, as the conflict between Abby and Ellie continues after the shots are fired.

You can now stream The Last of Us seasons 1 and 2 on HBO Max in the US, as well as on Sky and NOW in the UK. For additional insights, be sure to read our review of The Last of Us season 2.