"The Last of Us" TV series from HBO is widely considered the top video game adaptation.
The show has impressed audiences in its seven episodes, with Pedro Pascal's remarkable portrayal of Joel garnering praise.
Series star Jeffrey Pierce revealed that Mahershala Ali was initially considered for the role of Joel, in an interview with The Direct.
Pierce, who played Perry in the series and voiced Tommy in the 2014 video game, said that Pedro Pascal was eventually cast, and he recognized that Pascal was older than him.
Despite Pascal's excellent performance, Mahershala Ali, an Oscar-winning actor, would have been a great option for the role of Joel.
Ali's exceptional talent in previous works would have undoubtedly brought his best to "The Last of Us," and his acceptance of the role would have extended his partnership with HBO.
Pascal has excelled in playing the archetype of a "man on the run with a child" as Joel.
With the upcoming episode of the show, audiences can look forward to seeing Pascal recover from his injuries.
The success of the first season has led to the renewal of "The Last of Us" for a second season.
The second season will continue the story from "The Last of Us Part II," with Joel being a featured character.