In a thrilling intersection of video games and television, a notable actor from The Last of Us series has caught the eye of Neil Druckmann, the creative force behind Naughty Dog. This recognition has led the actor to secure a coveted role in the much-anticipated forthcoming title, Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet.
Alert: This article contains spoilers for the second season of The Last of Us.
The latest episode of The Last of Us season two has kept viewers on the edge of their seats by presenting a character not initially found in the gaming universe: Joel’s father. Played by Tony Dalton, known for his captivating performance as Lalo Salamanca in the award-winning Better Call Saul, Javier Miller is depicted as a troubled police officer in 1980s Austin. His character reveals a menacing past marked by abusive tendencies toward his two sons, Joel and Tommy, reflective of his tumultuous upbringing.
In an exclusive chat with Entertainment Weekly, Neil Druckmann expressed his excitement after the release of the sixth episode. He disclosed that Dalton was his “first choice” for this crucial role, humorously dubbing the actor as “the most charming, threatening man” on contemporary television. Druckmann credited Dalton’s exceptional performance in Better Call Saul as a significant factor in his casting decision.
Druckmann’s appreciation for Dalton’s acting prowess transcended mere admiration; he promptly cast him in Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet. “He was the first person I thought of,” Druckmann remarked, emphasizing how Dalton left an unforgettable mark with his remarkable talent.
Joining Dalton in this exciting sci-fi project is actress Tati Gabrielle, who also appears in the adaptation of The Last of Us as the character Nora. Gabrielle, recently seen in PlayStation Productions’ Uncharted film, is preparing for her role in Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet under Druckmann’s expert guidance. She has also been made aware of the potential for online backlash, harnessing insights from the fervent discussions that followed the launch of The Last of Us Part II.
