Full Breakdown
Controversy Surrounds Casting of Trans Character Lev in HBO's The Last of Us Season 3
3/25/2026, 8:59:21 PM
Casting Decision Sparks Backlash
HBO's announcement regarding the casting of Lev, a transgender boy from the video game adaptation The Last of Us, has generated significant controversy among fans. The role will be played by cisgender actress Kyriana Kratter, known for her work in Star Wars: Skeleton Crew, rather than a transgender actor. This decision has drawn criticism, particularly given the character's integral trans identity in the narrative of The Last of Us Part II, where Lev's experiences as a trans boy are central to his storyline.
Background on Lev's Character
In the video game, Lev is depicted as a 13-year-old transgender boy who escapes a violent religious cult, the Seraphites, that seeks to impose traditional gender roles upon him. His character serves as a moral compass for Abby Anderson, a key protagonist in the series. The casting of Kratter has raised concerns about authenticity and representation, especially since the original voice of Lev in the game, trans actor Ian Alexander, had expressed interest in reprising the role.
Official Statements & Responses
HBO stated that they conducted an "inclusive casting call" for the character, with young actors from diverse backgrounds auditioning before selecting Kratter. Producers claimed she "best embodied" the character, although this phrasing has since been removed from the original casting announcement. Critics argue that casting a cisgender actor in a trans role undermines the importance of authentic representation in media, particularly for marginalized communities.
Criticism & Opposition
The backlash has been vocal on social media, with many fans expressing disappointment. Some argue that casting a cis actor for a trans role is not only tone-deaf but also a missed opportunity to elevate a trans actor into a significant role. Comments from fans highlight the frustration over the ongoing trend of cis actors portraying trans characters, which many see as a step backward in representation. Others have pointed out the challenges that a young trans actor might face in the current political climate, suggesting that safety concerns could have influenced the casting decision.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While some fans believe that the casting of a cisgender actress for a trans role is inherently problematic, others acknowledge the difficulties in finding a suitable young trans actor willing to face public scrutiny. This divergence in opinion reflects broader discussions about representation and the complexities involved in casting decisions for LGBTQ+ characters.
What's Next for The Last of Us
The third season of The Last of Us is set to premiere in 2027 and is rumored to be the final installment of the HBO adaptation. As the show continues to navigate its portrayal of complex characters and themes, the casting of Lev remains a focal point of discussion among fans and advocates for LGBTQ+ representation in media.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Hey so casting a woman to play Lev is in fact transphobic!” — Anonymous Fan
- “There’s so many trans teens trying to get into acting. This is so f*****.” — Anonymous Fan
- “I feel like it’s pretty tone deaf not to cast a trans male actor for Lev’s role,” — Anonymous Fan
- “The odds of them finding a 13 to 16 year old asian trans kid to play Lev who is willing to endure the public scrutiny, outrage and harassment that will come from being an out trans kid in the current political climate, would be almost impossible.” — Anonymous Fan
The casting of Lev in The Last of Us serves as a critical case study in the ongoing dialogue about representation in Hollywood, highlighting the need for authentic portrayals of marginalized identities.
