The Last of Us Creator Denies Spinoff Rumors
The Last of Us creator Craig Mazin has put an end to the rumors surrounding a potential spinoff for the show. The first season of The Last of Us received widespread acclaim and secured eight awards at the Creative Arts Emmys. While the second season is confirmed, with new cast members joining the team, the release date is yet to be announced.
Bill on the piano set with Frank looking over in The Last Of Us episode 3
In a conversation with Deadline at the post-Emmy party, Mazin dismissed the idea of a spinoff, specifically ruling out the return of Bill and Frank to The Last of Us. He expressed contentment with what they have achieved and stated that there won't be more Bill and Frank. Mazin's full quote sheds light on the decision:
“I’m very proud of the episode we did with Bill and Frank. There won’t be more Bill and Frank. Nick was joking about a prequel, that was kind of a joke. We are very happy with what we achieved.”
Why This Is The Right Decision for Bill and Frank
The episode featuring Bill and Frank, titled 'Long, Long Time,' is considered near perfect despite facing criticism from some quarters. This installment is particularly notable for its portrayal of the characters and earned Nick Offerman an Emmy for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Drama Series. However, Mazin's refusal to entertain a potential prequel spinoff for the duo is rooted in the essence of their story:
All of Bill and Frank’s effervescent love story — the shared song, the gourmet home-cooked meals, the strawberry giggles — is forlornly beautiful because it is fleeting.
The insularity of this episode is what makes it exceptional. The tragedy in 'Long, Long Time' arises from the finite nature of time. Despite the appeal of a prequel spinoff centered on Bill and Frank, their story is poignant precisely because it is transient.
Moreover, a potential spinoff would not align with the narrative dynamics of The Last of Us. Bill and Frank's existence in a relatively safe environment, shielded from the infected, is overshadowed by the looming threat of Frank's terminal illness. This delicate balance of peace and impending tragedy is integral to the episode's impact and would be compromised in a spinoff series. As such, 'Long, Long Time' remains a brilliant standalone episode, unaltered and unspoiled.
Conclusion
The decision to refrain from a spinoff centered on Bill and Frank in The Last of Us is a testament to the integrity of their story. Despite the allure of exploring their background and the possibility of a prequel series, the episode 'Long, Long Time' stands as a poignant and complete narrative. The refusal to dilute the impact of their fleeting love story and the delicate balance of peace and tragedy reaffirms the episode's near perfection. As fans await the release of The Last of Us season 2, 'Long, Long Time' remains a timeless testament to the storytelling prowess of The Last of Us.
