Fresh off her scene-stealing turn in Ryan Coogler’s blockbuster, Li Jun Li is stepping into one of HBO‘s biggest franchises — and her casting signals an increasingly formidable ensemble taking shape.
Li Jun Li, who drew acclaim for her performance as Grace Chow in Ryan Coogler’s Oscar record-breaking vampire drama Sinners, has joined Season 3 of HBO Max’s hit series The Last of Us, Variety has learned exclusively.
Li will play Miriam, a Seraphite and the mother of siblings Lev and Yara. Kyriana Kratter is set to play Lev and Michelle Mao will portray Yara — two characters whose paths collide with Abby at a pivotal turning point, as Ellie launches her revenge rampage through Seattle.
Season 3’s cast is among the largest the show has assembled. Jason Ritter and Patrick Wilson were previously announced, while Ariela Barer, Tati Gabrielle and Spencer Lord — all recurring players in Season 2 — have been promoted to series regulars.
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Clea DuVall and Jorge Lendeborg Jr. were announced earlier, with Lendeborg Jr. stepping into the role of Manny. Returning cast members include Kaitlyn Dever, Bella Ramsey, Isabella Merced, Gabriel Luna and Jeffrey Wright.
Co-creator Neil Druckmann announced his departure ahead of Season 3, leaving Craig Mazin as the sole showrunner. Mazin will also write and executive produce — assuming full creative control of the series.
The transition comes as the show heads into its most complex storyline yet. Notably, The Last of Us was renewed for a third season back in 2025, ahead of its Season 2 premiere — a rare vote of confidence that underscored HBO’s long-term investment in the franchise.
Li’s career is on the rise. She is next set to appear in Prime Video’s live-action Marvel series Spider-Noir, starring opposite Academy Award winner Nicolas Cage. The series is slated for a global premiere on May 27.
“Li Jun Li brings a sharp instinct for character and real screen presence,” one industry insider noted. “After Sinners, she’s exactly the kind of performer prestige shows go after — and The Last of Us is a perfect fit.”
Her previous television credits include Peacock’s Based on a True Story and Paramount’s Evil.
The Last of Us is a co-production between HBO and Sony Pictures Television. Executive producers include Carolyn Strauss, Jacqueline Lesko, Cecil O’Connor, Asad Qizilbash, Carter Swan and Evan Wells. PlayStation Productions, Word Games, Mighty Mint and Naughty Dog also produce.
Shooting is expected to begin this summer.
Li Jun Li is represented by Gersh, Authentic, attorneys Karl Austen and Andrew Howard, and Persona PR.
