Isabela Merced recently spoke about her experience filming the love scene between Ellie and Dina in The Last of Us, emphasizing the importance of authenticity in portraying queer relationships on screen. In a candid interview this week, Merced explained that the emotional tenderness audiences observed was entirely genuine, saying,
The natural chemistry and mutual understanding shared between Merced and her co-star Bella Ramsey were immediately evident, bringing life to one of the series’ most anticipated storylines.
Set in a post-apocalyptic world fraught with danger, The Last of Us offers viewers rare moments of vulnerability, especially through intimate, character-driven scenes. Isabela Merced highlighted that comfort on set allowed her and Bella Ramsey to enhance the authenticity of their performances, even spontaneously adding extra affectionate gestures during filming. Their collaboration not only brought Ellie and Dina’s relationship into sharp focus but also helped elevate the episode by making the love story feel unfiltered and real.
While Merced acknowledged that queer actors bring a deeper level of comfort to queer roles, she was cautious to point out that sexuality is not a prerequisite for delivering a truthful performance. According to Merced,
but she also noted that
This insight resonates strongly with high school viewers, many of whom are only beginning to see well-rounded queer characters and relationships realistically reflected on major shows.
The creative team’s dedication to authenticity extended behind the camera as well, with queer director Kate Herron guiding the depiction of Ellie and Dina’s romance. Herron shared her approach to crafting episode 204, stating,
Her commitment to showcasing rare, peaceful interludes amidst chaos added depth to the relationship, offering a heartfelt reprieve from the series’ trademark intensity.
Isabela Merced’s reflections on her performance also emphasize the specific nuances that queer actors bring to queer roles, drawing from shared experiences that may be difficult for others to accurately capture. She candidly described how spontaneous moments and extra kisses on set contributed to the organic feel of Ellie and Dina’s connection. This openness brings an extra layer of significance for viewers seeking representation that feels truthful and respectful—something that is now slowly gaining momentum on mainstream television.
Discussions around casting in queer roles have been increasingly relevant in today’s entertainment landscape. While Merced believes that genuine portrayals are possible regardless of an actor’s orientation, she affirms that queer people, when part of the process, can infuse their roles with personal insight, elevating the viewing experience. The fact that both leads, as well as the director, were queer, resulted in a collaborative energy that made Ellie and Dina’s storyline particularly resonant and meaningful.
Director Kate Herron’s vision complemented Isabela Merced’s approach perfectly, creating a safe environment in which both actors could explore their characters’ vulnerabilities without hesitation or fear. The music store scene stands out as a testament to this trust, briefly transporting both characters and viewers to a world outside of struggle and survival—a small, powerful window into joy and connection for two young people in love.
As more young people identify with diverse gender and sexual identities, seeing actors like Isabela Merced discuss their experiences openly inspires viewers to seek authenticity in their own lives and in the stories they consume. The impact of such representation extends well beyond entertainment; it also affirms viewers’ realities, fosters empathy, and encourages broader industry changes in how queer love stories are told.
The conversation sparked by Isabela Merced’s comments signals a growing awareness among creators and audiences about the value of lived experience in crafting queer narratives. As The Last of Us continues to reach a broad audience, its attention to authenticity—both in front of and behind the camera—may pave the way for even more inclusive and genuine storytelling across television and film. The positive response to Merced’s openness suggests a shift toward more mindful casting and production practices, making space for new voices and richer, truer stories in the years ahead.
