Current Series Status and Finale Number
The Last of Us season 1 consists of nine episodes, with episode 9 serving as the series finale. The show is a post-apocalyptic drama based on the Naughty Dog video game, developed for HBO by Craig Mazin and Neil Druckmann. Episode 9 is the definitive season 1 conclusion and was produced as part of the original order.
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Finale Episode Number | Episode 9 | HBO Series Order and Press Release |
| Total Episodes (Season 1) | 9 | HBO Press Release |
| Series Based On | The Last of Us video game | Official HBO Announcement |
| Creators | Craig Mazin and Neil Druckmann | HBO Press Materials |
Episode 9 Finale Title and Plot Function
Episode 9 is titled " ... Left Behind" and focuses on Joel and Ellie navigating a critical turning point in their relationship and journey. The episode was directed by Ali Abbasi and written by Craig Mazin, adapting key emotional beats from the game while expanding the show’s character work. As the season’s capstone, it resolves narrative arcs introduced across the first eight episodes and establishes the consequences of choices central to the series’ themes of survival, love, and loss.
- Episode 9 title: " ... Left Behind"
- Director: Ali Abbasi
- Key focus: Joel and Ellie relationship turning point
Air Date and Time on HBO
Episode 9 aired as a single, finale presentation rather than split into two parts. It premiered with the rest of the season on HBO and HBO Max on January 15, 2023, with the finale broadcast on the same day as episode 8, following a one-week gap. No additional renewal beyond season 1 has been announced, leaving the status of a season 2 unconfirmed at the time of this writing.
Where to Watch and Platforms
The finale is available on HBO linear channels and streaming via HBO Max in United States territories. Licensed international broadcasters may carry the episode on their platforms depending on regional agreements. For the most current access, check your local HBO provider or HBO Max app. After the conclusion of season 1, the full series remains available for streaming and on-demand viewing.
Distinguishing Season 1 Finale and Possible Season 2
Because many major series use split finales, it is important to clarify that The Last of Us season 1 finale is a single episode, episode 9. Any discussion of a season 2 refers to a future, unordered set of episodes and has not been officially greenlit. Statements about the finale should reference the confirmed nine-episode first season and not conflate seasonal milestones with renewal announcements.
Content, Tone, and Viewer Expectations
Episode 9 delivers the season’s culmination of the relationship between Joel and Ellie, balancing action, character beats, and emotional stakes. The tone remains grounded within the game’s established world while expanding the scope through HBO’s production values. Viewer discretion is advised for mature themes, violence, and intense dramatic sequences that mark the series’ approach to its source material.