The Last of Us Reunites Joel and Ellieand Reveals What Really Happened to Eugene

Published: Monday, May 19, 2025 at 2:00 am

"The Last of Us" Episode "The Price" Explores Joel and Ellie's Complex Relationship

The latest episode of HBO's "The Last of Us," titled "The Price," delves deep into the evolving relationship between Joel and Ellie, offering a poignant look at their bond while also revealing the truth behind Eugene's fate. The episode, focusing on Ellie's birthdays, showcases heartwarming moments, like Joel restoring a guitar for her 15th birthday and taking her to a natural history museum for her 16th. These scenes highlight a growing daddy-daughter dynamic, contrasting with the unresolved tension hinted at earlier in the season.

The episode also explores the aftermath of Joel's actions, particularly concerning Eugene's death. The narrative reveals that Joel lied to Eugene's partner, Gail, about his final moments, a deception that deeply affects Ellie. This lie, coupled with Joel's past actions, leads to a confrontation where Ellie finally confronts Joel about his choices at the Firefly base. She accuses him of robbing her of her agency and the world's chance at a cure. Joel, in turn, admits he would make the same choice again, emphasizing his love for her.

The episode also revisits the New Year's dance from the season premiere, showing Joel's interactions with Maria and his intervention in a situation involving Seth, Ellie, and Dina. The episode's conclusion sees Ellie and Joel's relationship at a crossroads. While the episode provides emotional catharsis, it also raises questions about the show's direction, potentially undermining the impact of the first season's ending.

Keywords: The Last of Us, Joel, Ellie, The Price, HBO, Eugene, relationship, birthdays, confrontation, season 2, recap, review, episode, Neil Druckmann, Craig Mazin.

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