A bloody tragedy on “The Last of Us” is a familiar move for HBO

HBO has had a complex and intriguing history with father figures since 1999, when Tony Soprano (James Gandolfini) grappled with his dual roles as a mob boss and a family man on “The Sopranos.” Tony struggles to be a present father and dutiful son to a bitter mother who he blames for causing his sainted father’s absence. However, as time passes, he realizes that his father’s influence played a significant role in shaping his behavioral flaws.

Contrasting this darkness is “Six Feet Under” with the amiable undertaker Nathaniel Fisher Sr. (Richard Jenkins), who is seen sneaking a smoke while driving to pick up his eldest son. Pedro Pascal’s character Joel Miller in “The Last of Us” joins a group of flawed figures who impact those around them, for better or worse. Initially emotionally distant, Joel later forms a bond with Ellie (Bella Ramsey) as they navigate a dangerous world filled with infected zombies.

The recent portrayal of fatherly influence on HBO is exemplified by characters like the cantankerous Logan Roy (Brian Cox) in “Succession” and the naive yet wise Viserys Targaryen (Paddy Considine) in “House of the Dragon,” a descendant of “Game of Thrones” character Ned Stark. These figures share a common trait of meeting undignified deaths, challenging viewers’ perceptions of justice and heroism.

Joel’s tragic demise in “The Last of Us” marks a pivotal moment in the series, as he faces the consequences of his past actions. The show delves into themes of sacrifice, vengeance, and redemption, leaving viewers to ponder the complexities of morality and justice. As the narrative unfolds, Joel’s death serves as a catalyst for Ellie’s growth and evolution as a character, setting the stage for new developments in the series.

The impact of Joel’s death reverberates throughout the show, prompting introspection on themes of loss, survival, and the price of redemption. While his fate may have been inevitable, the emotional weight of his sacrifice lingers, challenging viewers to confront difficult questions about morality and consequences. As the story unfolds, the legacy of Joel’s actions continues to shape the lives of those around him, leaving a lasting impact on the narrative and its characters.