Ashley Johnson returns in voice cameo for The Last of Us season 2 episode 2

Ashley Johnson, the original voice of Ellie in The Last of Us video game series, makes a powerful return in the second episode of HBO’s Season 2. She performs a haunting rendition of Shawn James’ folk song “Through the Valley,” which plays during the final moments of the episode, titled “Through the Valley.”

The track plays as Ellie (Bella Ramsey), Jesse (Young Mazino), and Dina (Isabela Merced) escort Joel’s body through the snow following his death at the hands of Abby (Kaitlyn Dever). Johnson’s vocals underscore the heartbreak of the scene, blending emotional weight with legacy.

According to Entertainment Weekly, the performance combines her 2016 recording from the teaser for The Last of Us Part II with a newly updated version recorded specifically for the series. Series co-creator Craig Mazin noted the symbolic significance of Johnson’s presence, connecting her role as Ellie’s original voice with her portrayal of Anna, Ellie’s mother, in Season 1.

“It’s an interesting thing,” Mazin said, “when your only parent is taken from you, the parent you’ve never met is there watching.” The creative choice adds emotional depth as Ellie loses a father figure, while being silently watched over by her mother’s voice.

Johnson originally voiced Ellie in the 2013 game, returning for the Left Behind DLC and The Last of Us Part II. Her cameo continues the show’s tradition of integrating original cast members, following appearances by Troy Baker, Merle Dandridge, and Laura Bailey.

Mazin reflected on the song’s lyrics as a contrast to the harsh world of the series—echoing themes of loss, futility, and longing—but hinted that even within despair, a spark of hope may remain.

New episodes air Sundays at 9 p.m. ET/PT on HBO and Max.