Eugene is a character referenced in both The Last of Us video game series and the HBO TV adaptation, but his story differs significantly between the two. In the video game The Last of Us Part II , Eugene is a somewhat legendary figure who was a former Firefly and a Vietnam War veteran. He had left his wife and child to join the resistance and was known for his technical skills and growing marijuana. He lived alone in an abandoned library and died of a stroke at age 73. He was remembered fondly by characters like Dina, who learned survival skills from him, and was associated with acts of resistance against FEDRA forces alongside Tommy
. In the HBO series, Eugene's role is expanded and altered. He is the husband of a new character, Gail, who is Joel's therapist. Unlike the game, Eugene is killed by Joel, which causes tension between Joel and Gail. Gail expresses deep resentment and anger toward Joel for killing Eugene, even though she acknowledges Joel "had no choice." The exact circumstances of Eugene's death have not been fully revealed, but it is implied Joel killed him after Eugene was bitten by an infected, possibly as a mercy killing. The show hints at a more complex and emotional story behind Eugene's death, which will be explored in upcoming episodes, including flashbacks featuring Eugene played by Joe Pantoliano
. In summary, Eugene in the show was a long-time resident of Jackson, married to Gail, and was killed by Joel under circumstances suggesting he was infected. This contrasts with the game, where Eugene died of natural causes and was never directly encountered by the player. The show uses Eugene's story to deepen the emotional and narrative complexity around Joel's character and relationships
