Troy Baker's Emotional Journey Portraying Joel in The Last of Us
Published on May 9, 2026, at 8:10 AM Eastern Time, ScreenRant's lead writer Liz Declan shares her deep insights into the creation of the beloved character Joel from The Last of Us.
With a passion for major film and television franchises like Star Wars, the MCU, and Supernatural, Declan brings her extensive experience in storytelling and fan engagement to her role as a writer. Her enthusiasm extends beyond the page as she actively participates in conventions and interviews with industry professionals.
In a candid conversation at Comicon Napoli 2026, Declan discusses her unexpected path to becoming Joel, highlighting the pivotal moments that transformed her initial hesitation into a defining performance. Her narrative offers a rare glimpse into the emotional depth required to embody such a complex character.
Troy Baker's Personal Connection to Joel's Story
Troy Baker speaking at Comicon Napoli 2026 Credit: Comicon Napoli
Despite early doubts about fitting the role, Baker's raw talent and dedication secured him the part. His journey from rejection to mastery illustrates the unpredictable nature of artistic talent and perseverance.
Even after securing the role, Baker faced significant challenges. He describes shedding his ego and embracing the vulnerability required to portray Joel's tumultuous emotional landscape. This transformation was not immediate; it demanded continuous self-reflection and growth.
Baker's portrayal of Joel's tragic arc—from loss to survival to moral conflict—resonates deeply with audiences. His ability to convey the character's pain, especially during pivotal moments like the massacre at the Fireflies, showcases the actor's commitment to authenticity.
One particularly poignant memory involves Baker's confrontation with the character's darkest decisions. The scene where Joel kills the Fireflies haunted him long after filming, prompting introspection about the boundaries of parental love and sacrifice.
These experiences mirror real-life parenting struggles, as Baker relates Joel's protective instincts to his own relationship with his young son. He emphasizes the importance of unconditional support, drawing parallels between fictional narratives and actual familial bonds.
Baker's philosophy extends beyond acting. He views his work as temporary custodianship of characters, passing them to future performers while instilling lasting emotional connections in audiences. This perspective underscores the enduring legacy of iconic roles.
Critics have lauded Baker's performance, noting its nuanced balance of stoicism and vulnerability. His interpretation aligns with the original narrative's exploration of grief and redemption, earning widespread acclaim across platforms.
Ultimately, Baker's portrayal transcends mere imitation. It becomes a vessel for universal themes of loss, resilience, and the human condition. His journey reflects both professional triumph and personal evolution, making Joel's story resonate across generations.
Like the actor, the character evolves through each performance, embodying the timeless struggle between duty and morality. This symbiotic relationship between actor and role ensures that Joel remains a landmark achievement in video game cinema.
Systems>Systems
Top Critic Avg: 94/100
Critics Rec: 99%
Released: June 14, 2013
ESRB: M for Mature – Blood and Gore, Intense Violence, Sexual Themes, Strong Language
Developer(s): Naughty Dog
Publisher(s): Sony
Engine: Proprietary (overall), Havok (physics)
Multiplayer: Online Multiplayer
Cross-Platform Play: No
Expansions: The Last of Us: Left Behind
Genre(s): Action-Adventure, Drama
