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Khaleej Times
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Khaleej Times
'The Last of Us' Season 2: Creators break down character deaths and Season 3 plans
After a two-year hiatus, The Last of Us stormed back into our lives with its soul-shattering second season. Clocking in at just seven episodes over seven weeks, the season was shorter than the first—but packed with devastating emotion, brutal choices, and some of the most iconic moments lifted straight from the game and elevated through live action. The result? A season that gave longtime fans a reason to grieve all over again—and newcomers a masterclass in morally complex storytelling. Ahead of the finale, which aired on OSN+ on Monday in the UAE, I attended a virtual press conference with co-creators Craig Mazin and Neil Druckmann. As someone who has played the video game and watched the show evolve in real time, it was great to see the makers diving deep into character analysis and hinting at a bigger, more layered Season 3. A shorter season, a heavier punch Where Season 1 introduced us to Joel and Ellie's bond against the backdrop of a ravaged America, Season 2 flips the emotional equation. Joel's death, a moment to relive for those who played the game, and still gutting to watch, is the narrative thunderclap that reshapes the world for Ellie—and us. Unlike in the game, where players controlled Joel and Ellie, the show allows us to watch them with some distance, yet ironically brings us closer to their emotional core. Craig Mazin described the death scene as the moment he was both most eager and terrified to shoot: 'It wasn't so much the mechanics of Joel dying… it was capturing the emotional devastation," he said. "Bella (Ramsey) was shattering in that moment.' Pascal's version of Joel is notably softer and more open than Troy Baker's gruff, emotionally barricaded portrayal in the game—a shift Druckmann acknowledged. He said, "Pedro's Joel is more articulate, more outwardly vulnerable… It felt right for the version of the story we're telling.' The show expands Joel's emotional vocabulary, especially in the penultimate episode like the porch scene, where he tells Ellie: ' Because I love you… in a way you can't understand.' That line—absent from the game—was added to underline the depth of his paternal bond with Ellie, and set the stage for her heartbreak-fueled arc. Blood, guilt, and the drug of revenge This season didn't just chart a path through post-apocalyptic Seattle; it charted Ellie's psychological breakdown. From a relationship that blooms with Dina (Isabella Merced, who is brilliant in the show), to a series of increasingly violent choices, Ellie walks a razor's edge. One of the season's darkest moments—the accidental killing of a pregnant doctor, Mel—is handled with almost surgical cruelty by the writers. 'If you're rooting for Ellie, that moment should make you feel dirty,' said Mazin. 'This breaks her,' he added. 'And Bella's performance in that scene is astonishing.' Druckmann added that Ellie's obsession mirrors addiction. He said, "You can get over it… the question is, can she ever fully get over it?' The idea that revenge is not a satisfying conclusion but a corrosive journey is baked into every scene. By the finale, Ellie is emotionally hollowed out—poised on the brink of a confrontation with Abby that the show smartly saves for a later season. What's coming in Season 3? While Mazin and Druckmann refused to share exact plot points about Season 3, they made it abundantly clear: Abby's story is next. As in the game, we're likely to shift into her point of view—and actress Kaitlyn Dever, who plays Abby, is not going anywhere. 'We haven't seen the last of Kaitlyn Dever… or Bella Ramsey… or a lot of people who are currently dead,' teased Mazin. This aligns with the structure of The Last of Us Part II, where Abby's journey becomes central—and controversial—for players. The show seems prepared to embrace that polarising shift, with Druckmann adding, 'We're telling you next season… this other story is going to be really important.' And what about Tommy, Joel's brother, played by Gabriel Luna? I asked them why his role felt muted this season, compared to his more active presence in the game. Mazin pushed back: 'He defended Jackson from an entire assault… I don't know if I agree with the premise.' But then he added something more intriguing: 'There's the potential of seeing this other side of Tommy… once he's outside the confines of Jackson.' That promise of a more vengeful, morally flexible Tommy is something fans can—and should—look forward to. Druckmann's response? "Just wait." A story still haunted by Joel Though Joel dies early in the season, his ghost lingers in every frame. Whether it's Ellie hearing his voice, Dina recalling his kindness, or even the blood-stained memory of what he did at the end of last season's finale, his actions shape everyone's present. Mazin summarised it best: 'Everything is under the cloud—or sunlight—of Joel. What Joel did to Abby and what he did for Ellie. That will never change.' Even the show's structure continues to echo the past. Season 2 ends just before the iconic Ellie vs. Abby showdown. Why stop there? 'This is part of the genetics of how this story functions,' said Mazin.'We have to take risks… and HBO supports us in doing that.' With Ellie emotionally shattered, Jesse (Young Mazino) dead, Tommy lost in vengeance, and Abby's perspective waiting in the wings, The Last of Us is gearing up for a third—and likely penultimate—season that will test every character's core beliefs. This is a show that's never been about who lives or dies—it's about what survives in the aftermath: grief, love, guilt, and memory.
Qatar Living
21-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Qatar Living
Ooredoo Introduces Home+ Go Entertainment Plan Transforming Digital Home Experience in Qatar
Ooredoo, Qatar's leading telecommunications operator, continues its bold evolution of Home+ with the launch of its latest innovation — the Home+ Go Entertainment Plan. Part of a broader vision to redefine home living for the digital generation, the new plan merges ultrafast internet with flexible, premium entertainment options, setting a new benchmark for connected households across Qatar. The flagship offering of the new plan includes 1 Gbps ultrafast fibre internet, which ensures effortless connectivity and a seamless streaming experience. Accompanying this is the Marhaba TV Package on the Ooredoo TV App, featuring 28 complimentary TV channels that cater to diverse viewing preferences. Additionally, new customers can enjoy a special launch offer for the first nine months, making premium home entertainment more accessible than ever before, with a saving of QR 615. Elevating the entertainment experience further, subscribers to the Home+ Go Entertainment plan will receive 5 credits, providing them with the flexibility to personalise their streaming options. These credits can be redeemed for leading services such as Shahid, OSN+, and STARZPLAY. Moreover, users have the freedom to select a different streaming service each month, ensuring they stay updated with the latest movie and TV show releases, as well as trending entertainment content. Speaking about the new launch, Sabah Rabiah Al Kuwari, Senior Director Marketing Communications at Ooredoo, said, 'At Ooredoo, we are committed to offering services that meet the evolving needs of our customers. The Home+ Go Entertainment Plan is designed to deliver a truly enriched entertainment experience, bringing together state-of-the-art connectivity with personalised entertainment options.' The new plan is geared towards providing a seamless and forward-thinking entertainment experience that underscores Ooredoo's commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction. By integrating flexibility, superior streaming services, and ultrafast connectivity, Ooredoo continues to lead Qatar's digital transformation, delivering exceptional home entertainment experiences. Ooredoo invites its valued customers to elevate their entertainment experience with the Home+ Go Entertainment Plan, offering premium content and flexible streaming options tailored to modern viewing needs. --- Make sure to check out our social media to keep track of the latest content. Instagram - @qatarliving X - @qatarliving Facebook - Qatar Living YouTube - qatarlivingofficial
Web Release
20-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Web Release
LG STREAMING WEEK BRINGS EXCEPTIONAL DEALS FOR UAE CUSTOMERS
LG Electronics today announced Streaming Week, a global promotion running from May 19 through June 30, 2025, that will deliver exceptional content offers and special deals to LG TV owners in markets worldwide. The initiative provides customers with access to region-specific promotions designed to enhance their viewing experience across LG's television portfolio. Available in the UAE, the deals feature many of LG's strong streaming partners such as Shahid, OSN+, and Yango Play. Each streaming service offers customers access to extensive curated content libraries. The promotional offers include: one complimentary month of Shahid, two months at 50% off from OSN+, and three months free from Yango Play. The offer will be available on LG TVs that are running webOS4.5 to webOS25 models, including 4K and 8K Smart TVs, StanbyME, StanbyME Go and the LG Smart Monitor. To access the offer, all that the user has to do is click the LG Streaming Week banner on the webOS Home page and then select the partner banner that they are keen on using. Once the streaming partner is selected, they will be given a voucher via QR code, which the user can redeem to use the service. This initiative reflects LG's commitment to enhancing customer value through strategic partnerships that expand access to premium entertainment. By combining cutting-edge hardware with exceptional streaming deals, LG makes quality content more accessible and affordable across the region. LG TVs leverage innovative features including intuitive controls, AI-powered recommendations, and smart home integration, delivering personalized entertainment experiences that seamlessly connect with modern lifestyles. Whether you're a movie buff, a binge-watcher, or someone who loves discovering new content, LG Streaming Week ensures that your entertainment needs are met with convenience and affordability. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to unlock premium content and elevate your viewing experience. For more information about LG Streaming Week and participating partners, visit
Broadcast Pro
14-05-2025
- Business
- Broadcast Pro
Top Dubai investors join as judges for business reality show ‘The Final Pitch'
'The Final Pitch: Dubai' set to air exclusively on OSN and OSN+ in Q4 2025. Dubai is set to become the new stage for entrepreneurial dreams as four of its leading business figures have been named investor-judges on the upcoming Middle East debut of The Final Pitch, Asia's longest-running business reality television series. Bringing with them a wealth of expertise across industries such as digital transformation, real estate, clean tech, fintech and venture capital, the investor-judges will play a central role in evaluating and mentoring aspiring founders. The high-profile panel includes Cypher Capital Founding Partner and Phoenix Group PLC Co-Founder Bijan Alizadeh; real estate expert Dr Mohanad Alwadiya, also known as 'The Wolf of Real Estate'; Incubayt Investments Founding Partner Sami Khoreibi, known for his dual experience as an entrepreneur and investor; and Jigar Sagar, Founder and Managing Partner of Triliv Holdings, a visionary investor and strategic government advisor. The Final Pitch will follow its proven format, offering selected entrepreneurs a rare opportunity to pitch their businesses directly to influential investors. Beyond capital, the show will provide participants with deep mentorship from industry experts, exclusive access to the investor-judges' companies and networks, and a platform to accelerate their growth. Applications are now open to both UAE-based and international startup founders, with the chance to be featured on the show and potentially secure investment. Participants will benefit from strategic coaching and constructive feedback as they refine their pitches ahead of a high-stakes finale. The investor-judges will not only assess the business viability of the pitches but will also mentor their chosen founders by welcoming them into their operations, providing behind-the-scenes exposure and one-on-one guidance. Produced by Dragon's Nest, in collaboration with UAE production partner Ti22 Films, the series is scheduled to begin filming across iconic Dubai locations in June 2025. Ti22 Films CEO Reim El Houni joins the project as Co-Executive Producer. The show will premiere exclusively on OSN and OSN+ in Q4 2025. Entrepreneurs interested in applying can submit their pitches via the show's official website, with applications closing on May 27, 2025. John Aguilar, creator and host of The Final Pitch and Founder of Dragon's Nest, LLC FZ, the business and media investment firm bringing the show to the region, said: 'Dubai is one of the most exciting places in the world to build and grow a business right now. Our mission has always been to spotlight visionary founders and connect them with real opportunities for investment and mentorship. With this first UAE edition in Dubai, we aim to contribute meaningfully to the country's vision of fostering entrepreneurship, innovation and a knowledge-based economy – by helping build the next generation of business leaders.'
Gulf Business
14-05-2025
- Business
- Gulf Business
Tribe – The CMO Connect: Where the marketing powerhouses unite in Dubai
Image credit: Supplied The region's most forward-thinking marketers are set to converge in Dubai for the highly anticipated third edition of Tribe – The CMO Connect, happening on Wednesday, May 14, at the Address Sky View Hotel. Hosted by KT Events, Tribe has cemented its position as the definitive annual platform for CMOs (Chief Marketing Officers), brand leaders, marketing strategists, and digital trailblazers across the region. This year's summit promises an elevated and immersive experience, offering attendees a comprehensive marketing playbook tailored for today's dynamic, omnichannel environment. 'The future of marketing isn't necessarily mobile-first; it's experience-first. And that experience must transcend channels, devices, and platforms seamlessly,' said David Karnstedt, CEO of Branch, as he highlighted the event's unique vision. 'Branch is excited to join fellow marketing enthusiasts at Tribe – The CMO Connect, sharing real-world success stories alongside OSN+ and Anghami on winning customers through seamless experiences, and exploring fresh ideas on rethinking customer engagement.' In strategic collaboration with Branch (Tribe's Strategic Partner) and Braze (Customer Engagement Partner), Tribe 2025 will unfold through a series of insightful keynotes, panel discussions, and fireside conversations, led by top marketing minds from some of the world's most admired and disruptive brands, including: Emirates, Spotify, Anghami, OSN+, Sony Music Entertainment, Binance, DAMAC Properties, Domino's, Schneider Electric, L'Oréal Middle East, Nothing Tech, Property Finder, TECOM Group Dubai, GymNation, Engel & Völkers, MultiBank Group, Waldorf Astoria DIFC, Emirates Hospitals Group, Landmark Group, and many more. Most influential marketing leaders This third edition will also feature the exclusive unveiling of the GCC's Most Influential Marketing Leaders, a prestigious initiative recognising marketing excellence, innovation, and leadership across the region. List makers will be selected by a distinguished jury panel of industry veterans and a Khaleej Times editorial panel. The summit will also include a networking lunch, providing attendees with opportunities to build strategic partnerships, explore collaborative ideas, and engage with the region's top marketing visionaries. Tribe is where the future of marketing takes centre stage. It's all about tapping into emerging trends, sharpening strategies, and connecting with influential peers. Don't Miss This Visionary Fireside Chat at TRIBE – THE CMO CONNECT Prepare for an unmissable highlight at TRIBE – THE CMO CONNECT, as Boutros Boutros, Executive Vice President of Marketing & Corporate Communications at Emirates, takes center stage for an exclusive fireside chat with Michal Divon, Chief Client Officer at Khaleej Times. A globally respected figure in the world of brand building, Mr. Boutros has been instrumental in shaping Emirates into one of the most admired and recognizable airline brands on the planet. With decades of visionary leadership, his work has defined world-class excellence in marketing, brand storytelling, and customer engagement. In this power-packed session, discover how Emirates crafts emotionally resonant narratives, leverages cutting-edge digital ecosystems, and creates seamless journeys that inspire enduring customer loyalty. If you want to learn from a true icon in global marketing, this is the session you cannot afford to miss. Be in the room where legacy meets leadership, and vision charts the path forward. For attendance inquiries, sponsorship, or more information, please contact:
