The Last of Us star Nick Offerman, known for his role as Bill in the HBO series, hinted at the possibility of a Bill and Frank spinoff prequel. However, fans quickly expressed skepticism.
The game implied that Frank, who was deceased by the time Joel reached his chapter, was Bill's partner. The show, though, focused on their story in a more narrowed, in-depth direction. Co-creator Craig Mazin aimed to expand and breathe life into Bill and Frank's original story, dedicating episode 3 of season 1, titled 'Long, Long Time,' to their relationship in the 20 years from the start of the apocalypse to the time Joel and Ellie reached their town. While the series altered Bill and Frank's story, the episode deeply resonated with fans, partly due to the actors' compelling performances.
During an Emmy award acceptance speech for his performance in The Last of Us, Offerman responded to a question about the potential return of Bill and Frank in flashbacks for the upcoming season. After jesting about the question being more suited for someone with a higher pay grade, he mentioned that the idea had been pitched. However, many fans took to the subreddit r/ThelastofusHBOseries to clarify that Offerman's statement was in jest, deeming the tweet misleading. Fans concur that a prequel is unnecessary, fearing it would bloat and diminish an already perfectly encapsulated story.
The Last of Us improved Bill and Frank's narrative, succinctly presenting their story in its entirety without dragging it out with excessive details that detract from the show's overall arc. Fans feel there isn't enough substance to warrant extending the characters' plots into a full season. Some express willingness to watch a prequel if it were to materialize, but the prospect of the pair engaging in unnecessary 'adventures of the week' seems unwarranted.
While the entertainment industry and critics may appreciate Offerman's portrayal of the character, the consensus is that a prequel would undermine the essence of the episode. Nonetheless, this doesn't negate the desire for a spinoff series set in The Last of Us universe. Fans are intrigued by the prospect of a series delving into the 20 years before the show's events, featuring a younger Joel, Tess, and his brother Tommy. Gamers are keen on the possibility of exploring their past, although many fans believe it's best left ambiguous.
If The Last of Us season 2 achieves success and delivers compelling storytelling, the TV format could effectively explore their background as a complementary story, potentially allowing Offerman to make cameo appearances as Bill. Meanwhile, viewers can revisit The Last of Us season 1 on Max while awaiting the filming of season two or experience Bill's story firsthand by playing the game.
The Last of Us season 1 is available on Max.
Source: Reddit/ThelastofusHBOseries, Deadline