Who Is Playing Jesse in The Last of Us Season 2? Meet the Star Bringing Heart to Jackson

Warning: This article contains spoilers for The Last of Us Season 2 and The Last of Us Part II game.

Curious about who is playing Jesse in The Last of Us Season 2? HBO’s gripping adaptation has introduced Young Mazino as Jesse, a pivotal character whose selflessness and loyalty shine in the post-apocalyptic world of Jackson.

In this deep dive, we’ll explore Jesse’s role, Mazino’s standout performance, and what makes this casting choice so compelling for fans of the game and series alike.

Who Is Jesse in The Last of Us Season 2?

Jesse is a supporting character in HBO’s The Last of Us Season 2, drawn from The Last of Us Part II game. He’s a pillar of the Jackson community, known for putting others’ needs before his own, often at great personal cost.

As Ellie’s friend and Dina’s ex-boyfriend, Jesse brings a grounded, relatable presence to the story. His role involves leading patrol groups and, later, joining Ellie on her quest for revenge, showcasing his unwavering loyalty.

In the series, Jesse’s calm and selfless nature contrasts with the chaos around him, making him a fan favorite for his quiet strength.

Jesse’s arc in Season 2, which premiered on April 13, 2025, expands on his game counterpart. While staying true to his core traits, the show gives him more screen time to explore his relationships with Ellie and Dina. His actions reflect the themes of community and sacrifice, central to the season’s narrative of revenge and redemption.

Who Is Young Mazino, the Actor Behind Jesse?

Young Mazino, the talented actor portraying Jesse, is no stranger to stealing scenes. Born in Los Angeles to Korean immigrant parents, Mazino broke out with his Emmy-nominated role as Paul Cho in Netflix’s Beef (2023).

His performance in Beef showcased his ability to balance charm, vulnerability, and intensity—qualities that make him a perfect fit for Jesse. Mazino’s casting was announced on January 10, 2024, sparking excitement among fans eager to see his take on the character.

Before The Last of Us, Mazino appeared in shows like Blue Bloods and Prodigal Son, honing his craft in smaller roles. His preparation for Jesse included firearm training and horseback riding, ensuring he embodied the character’s rugged competence. Mazino has spoken about playing The Last of Us Part II before meeting showrunners Craig Mazin and Neil Druckmann, which gave him a deep appreciation for Jesse’s arc.

What Makes Mazino’s Performance Stand Out?

Mazino’s portrayal of Jesse is a highlight of Season 2, blending warmth with understated heroism. He captures Jesse’s selflessness without making him feel one-dimensional, adding layers of quiet conflict beneath his dependable exterior.

Critics have praised Mazino for grounding the show’s darker moments, especially in scenes where Jesse navigates tensions between Ellie and Dina. His chemistry with Bella Ramsey (Ellie) and Isabela Merced (Dina) feels authentic, anchoring their group dynamic.

In interviews, Mazino has shared his approach to Jesse, emphasizing the character’s role as a steadying force. “Jesse’s the guy who shows up, no questions asked,” he told Screen Realm. “I wanted to honor that loyalty while showing the toll it takes.” His ability to convey Jesse’s sacrifices without overt drama has resonated with audiences, earning him buzz as a breakout star.

How Does Jesse’s Role Tie Into Season 2’s Themes?

Jesse’s presence in Season 2 underscores the show’s exploration of tribalism and sacrifice. As Jackson faces growing threats—from infected to outsiders—Jesse’s commitment to his community highlights the cost of selflessness.

His choice to leave Jackson and aid Ellie reflects the season’s darker take on loyalty, contrasting with the first season’s focus on unconditional love. Showrunners Mazin and Druckmann have noted that Jesse’s arc sets up key emotional beats, making his journey integral to the narrative.

In the game, Jesse’s fate is a gut-punch, and while we won’t spoil specifics here, Season 2 handles his story with care, staying faithful to the source while adding new depth. Mazino’s performance ensures Jesse feels human, not just a plot device, making his moments on screen unforgettable.

Why Was Mazino Cast as Jesse?

Casting Mazino was a deliberate choice by Mazin and Druckmann, who called him “undeniable” in their joint statement. His work in Beef proved he could handle complex characters, and his audition—described as more of a conversation than a test—sealed the deal.

Mazino’s ability to project calm strength while hinting at inner turmoil aligned perfectly with Jesse’s personality. Fans on X have praised the casting, with many noting Mazino’s natural fit for the role.

Unlike some divisive casting debates (like Kaitlyn Dever’s Abby), Mazino’s Jesse has been widely embraced. His fresh take honors Stephen Chang’s game performance while bringing a distinct energy, proving HBO’s knack for finding talent who elevate the source material.

Some Closing Thoughts:

Young Mazino’s portrayal of Jesse in The Last of Us Season 2 is a testament to his rising star power and the show’s thoughtful casting. As Jesse, he brings heart and humanity to a world defined by loss, making every scene he’s in resonate deeply.

Whether you’re a longtime fan of the game or new to HBO’s adaptation, Mazino’s performance is a reason to tune in.

Catch Jesse’s journey on HBO, and keep an eye on Mazino—he’s only getting started.