Fans of The Last of Us might’ve noticed a slower pace for Joel in Season 2’s premiere—literally. While Ellie (Bella Ramsey) and Dina (Isabela Merced) were dodging Clickers, Joel was seen doing paperwork, in therapy, or at home.

So, what gives? Pedro Pascal revealed in a new USA Today interview that his physical scenes have been limited due to an injury he suffered in early 2024. Pascal walked the Golden Globes red carpet in January wearing an arm sling after a fall, later confirming he underwent surgery that month. Since The Last of Us began filming in mid-February, he’s still been in recovery.

“I came in very injured,” Pascal said. Showrunner Craig Mazin reassured him, saying, “The more broken you are, the more right it is for Joel.”

Season 2 continues Sunday, April 20 on HBO—stunts or no stunts, Joel’s still very much part of the story.