The Last of Us season 3: Danny Ramirez exits for MCU projects, HBO faces casting challenge as fans debate Manny’s fate

Fans of HBO’s hit series The Last of Us received surprising news as it was confirmed that Danny Ramirez, who played Manny, will not return for Season 3. Ramirez, known for his role as Joaquin Torres in the Marvel Cinematic Universe and as the new Falcon in Captain America: Brave New World, was set to feature more prominently in the upcoming season. However, scheduling conflicts have forced the production to recast his role, leaving viewers wondering who will step into the part.





Danny Ramirez’s departure from The Last of Us Season 3 comes despite Manny having a minor role in Season 2. With the story shifting focus to Abby rather than Ellie, Manny’s character was set to receive a significantly larger arc, giving Ramirez the chance to explore a more complex, morally nuanced role. Sources reveal that this opportunity was a major factor in his decision to join the show, as he aimed to expand his acting portfolio with high-profile, challenging projects that could showcase his versatility.



The reason for stepping away from one of television’s most acclaimed series appears to be scheduling conflicts with his Marvel commitments. Ramirez is involved in Avengers: Doomsday and the highly anticipated Avengers: Secret Wars, projects that demand extensive filming time. Faced with overlapping schedules, he chose to prioritise his growing presence in the MCU, recognising the global exposure and long-term career benefits it offers.

Ramirez’s résumé further underscores his rising star status. He earned acclaim for his role in Top Gun: Maverick and has delivered strong performances in independent films, demonstrating both range and depth. Industry insiders note that his decision reflects careful career planning, balancing opportunities in blockbuster franchises with character-driven storytelling that challenges him as an actor.



HBO now faces the challenge of casting a replacement who can match Ramirez’s talent and presence. Manny’s expanded role in Season 3 was crucial for humanising the WLF members and deepening the narrative around Abby’s storyline. The production team will need a performer capable of delivering the emotional weight and complexity that Ramirez was set to bring to the role.

Despite the setback, The Last of Us continues to be a flagship series for HBO, acclaimed for its intense storytelling and rich character development. Fans will have to wait to see how the recast affects the series’ dynamic and whether the new actor can fill the gap left by Ramirez. Meanwhile, speculation continues over the exact details of Ramirez’s commitments to the MCU, which will likely shape his career trajectory in the coming years.



As anticipation builds for Season 3, one thing is clear the intersection of blockbuster franchises and premium TV series increasingly requires actors to make strategic career choices, often leaving audiences guessing about who will appear on screen.