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Season 1 of The Last of Us set a new benchmark for video game adaptations, thanks in large part to its faithful storytelling, strong performances, and high production values. Its success was evident not only in awards but also in viewer engagement, with ratings soaring. However, the second season, which aired concluding in May 2025, saw a dramatic drop in viewership and ratings. Nielsen ratings, which track TV audiences with a lag of about a month, indicated a decline, culminating in over 50% fewer viewers for the finale compared to the first season's finale.