The TV series adaptation of the hit video game The Last of Us took the world by storm earlier this year. Pedro Pascal's performance as Joel has been credited as one of the reasons why the series became successful and lived up to the quality.
However, there was a scenario where Pascal could not have played Joel and another high-profile actor may have portrayed the role instead. Given Pascal's terrific performance as Joel in the series, it is difficult at this point to think of another actor playing the role.
As it turns out, before Pascal was cast to play Joel, there was an Oscar winner that the showrunner was in talks with to possibly play the character.
Matthew McConaughey Was In Contention to Play Joel in The Last of Us
In a recent interview with Josh Horowitz's Happy Sad Confused podcast (via GamesRadar), The Last of Us showrunner Craig Mazin was asked about the rumor that Mahershala Ali was in talks to play Joel in the series.
However, Mazin shot down the rumor and revealed that it was Oscar-winning actor Matthew McConaughey whom he was in talks for the role as Pascal was also not available during that time.
"I actually never talked to Mahershala. I did talk to Matthew. I wouldn’t say that it was serious, it was more of just like, 'Hey, here’s something we can talk about,'" he said.
"Initially, Pedro was on our list from the start but we were told that he was unavailable. And then, as we were kinda floundering around a little bit, I got a call from his agent who said, 'You know, he actually might be available.'"
As we all know, Mazin was fortunately able to nab Pascal and the two hit it off as soon as they start talking about potentially doing the series.
"Then we got on a Zoom and had what I think is the most wonderful Zoom I’ve ever had, just love at first sight," the showrunner shared.
"I’m sure there’s a different universe where it’s another actor. And look, Matthew McConaughey is an amazing actor, I’m sure it would have been great but it would have been different. And I like the one that we made so what can I say?"
As we've known for decades, McConaughey is a talented actor and he could have done a great job playing Joel if he ends up getting cast. The show might still be successful similar to the one that we have now.
However, with what Pascal ended up doing in his performance, we can say that everything still went well as Mazin was able to cast a wonderful actor for the role and the audience is happy as well with The Mandalorian star's take on the character.
Also Read: Pedro Pascal Says The Last of Us Season 2 Will Have 'More Leeway' Than First Season
The first season of The Last of Us is streaming on Max.
Explore new topics and discover content that's right for you!