HBO’s acclaimed drama The Last of Us will introduce a new actor in the role of Manny when the series returns for its third season, following Danny Ramirez’s departure because of scheduling conflicts. The update was confirmed through official production information associated with the series, providing clarity for viewers tracking the show’s evolving cast as it moves into its next chapter.
Why The Last of Us Season 3 Will Feature a New Actor as Manny
Danny Ramirez joined The Last of Us in Season 2, portraying Manny, a character positioned as a loyal and optimistic soldier whose outward warmth contrasts with deep personal struggles. Manny’s history as a former Firefly connected him closely to Abby, played by Kaitlyn Dever, and placed him at the center of the story’s exploration of loyalty, loss, and vengeance. Within the series’ timeline, Manny supported Abby during her pursuit of Joel, portrayed by Pedro Pascal, following Joel’s actions at the Firefly hospital that were driven by his determination to save Ellie, played by Bella Ramsay.
According to the officially released details, Ramirez will not continue in the role for Season 3 because his filming schedule could not be aligned with the production timeline. The recasting decision reflects a logistical adjustment rather than a creative shift, allowing the series to maintain continuity for Manny’s storyline while accommodating the actor’s existing commitments. HBO has not yet announced who will step into the role for the upcoming season.
Danny Ramirez’s Expanding Film and Television Commitments Beyond HBO
Outside of The Last of Us, Ramirez has remained active across major film and television projects. He is widely recognized for his portrayal of Joaquin Torres, also known as Falcon, within the Marvel Cinematic Universe, including appearances in The Falcon and the Winter Soldier and the feature film Captain America: Brave New World, with an additional role slated for Avengers: Doomsday. He is also set to appear in Samo Lives, a forthcoming biopic centered on artist Jean-Michel Basquiat.
The Last of Us, adapted from the video game created by Neil Druckmann, is set in a world reshaped decades after the collapse of modern civilization and follows Joel and Ellie’s perilous journey across the United States. The television series was co-created by Druckmann and Craig Mazin, both of whom were closely involved in writing and directing during Season 2. Ahead of Season 3, Druckmann stepped away from his creative duties on the show to focus on other projects, while HBO continues to guide the series forward.
