Isabela Merced, renowned for her dynamic performances in “The Last of Us” and “Superman,” continues to make waves in the entertainment industry. The multifaceted actress is set to debut as Dina, a new love interest for Bella Ramsey’s Ellie, in the highly anticipated second season of “The Last of Us.” Concurrently, Merced is gearing up for her significant role as Hawkgirl in the upcoming “Superman” film, releasing in theaters on July 11. Known for her infectious energy and commitment, Merced is captivating creative minds and audiences alike, solidifying her status as a leading figure in Hollywood.
During the filming of “The Last of Us,” Merced made a lasting impression not only with her acting skills but also with her vibrant personality. Co-showrunner Craig Mazin affectionately refers to her as “our little ray of sunshine.” While taking a break from shooting episode 3 in muddy Canadian fields, Merced sparked a spontaneous celebration among her cast and crew. Her lively spirit transformed an ordinary outing into “The Middle of Us” party at a nearby arcade, which quickly became a memorable highlight for everyone involved.
Merced’s dedication to fostering camaraderie extended beyond the set. Engaging with her fellow cast members, she helped create an environment filled with music and dance, where performances became routine between takes. With a playful nod to the apocalypse theme of “The Last of Us,” Merced even curated a playlist full of zombie-themed songs—ironic, given the show’s context.
As her colleagues confirm, Merced’s social vibrancy acts as a much-needed recharge for the team. Embracing her current anonymity, she publicly indulges in carefree adventures, be it visiting amusement parks or attending beaches and raves, before her roles in high-profile projects elevate her recognition.
Merced’s work has already caught the attention of distinguished creators like Fede Álvarez, her director on “Alien: Romulus.” Álvarez, who coincidentally thought of Merced for a role similar to her character Dina in “The Last of Us,” praises her as one of the hardest-working young actors in Hollywood, highlighting her big heart and untamable spirit.
Dina’s character, who adds depth to Merced’s role as the pregnant survivor in the “Alien” script, enriches the complex environment of “The Last of Us.” Despite its futuristic setting, the series resonates with contemporary audiences through its compelling narrative, including the blossoming romance between Ellie and Dina.
In preparing for her role as Dina, Merced immersed herself in the source material—playing both video games without knowing the character she’d audition for. This unbiased approach allowed her to connect authentically with Dina’s persona, impressing creators Mazin and Druckmann with her genuine representation of the character. Her first scene with Ramsey in season 2, set in Jackson’s unique community backdrop, became a genuine moment of discovery and collaboration.
Merced’s portrayal of Dina is informed in part by Shannon Woodward’s original work in the video game, drawing essential elements to craft a multidimensional character without losing the essence of Dina’s charmingly complex personality. Her enthusiasm for expanding Dina’s backstory and heritage into the series underscores her commitment to authenticity and depth.
Merced also acknowledges the societal impact of “The Last of Us” by sincerely portraying LGBTQ+ narratives amidst a broader cultural dialogue. Understanding the possible backlash, she focuses on the beauty of Ellie’s and Dina’s story as a “successful sapphic narrative,” confident that audiences will ultimately embrace love’s universal truth.
Outside “The Last of Us,” Merced embarks on her new journey as Hawkgirl in “Superman,” where she finds inspiration within the superhero community, especially with actor Nathan Fillion, who shares her zest for playful creativity and a healthy set of fidget toys.
Her enthusiastic, yet cautious approach reflects a blend of seasoned care and genuine curiosity. Despite a minor accidental misstep during a table read where she inadvertently leaked her involvement with iconic Superman imagery, Merced remains enthusiastic about her superhero role, drawing on her resilience as a performer.
Merced has already experienced the superhero lifestyle when stepping into characters like Anya Corazon in “Madame Web.” Although that project’s reception wasn’t what she hoped, it offered valuable insights into the disciplined and often demanding nature of the comic book genre’s expectations.
Humbled and optimistic, Merced eagerly embraces new challenges in roles yet to unfold, with a genuine affinity for expanding her reach to voice acting—a field close to her heart thanks to beloved childhood shows like “Justice League.” At the same time, she sets her sights on future ventures, including aspirations for Broadway and original theatre productions to celebrate her musical talents.
Her aspiration to diversify, from television to live-action films and beyond, speaks to her desire for uncharted pathways and creative prospects. Seeing herself both on screen and under the stage lights of Broadway, Merced aims to merge her authentic presence with unexplored narratives, without ever feeling boxed in by expectations.
Isabela Merced’s journey is a celebration of artistic expression, dynamic roles, and ongoing creative exploration. With exciting projects lined up and endless potential to harness, she exemplifies the essence of a multifaceted acting career that transcends conventional boundaries, inviting audiences around the world to join her as she forges a path through the thriving landscape of entertainment.
