“Beef” Star Young Mazino Joins “The Last of Us” as Jesse

Young Mazino at The Critics Choice Association's Celebration of Cinema & Television in December 2023
Young Mazino at The Critics Choice Association's Celebration of Cinema & Television in December 2023. Photo by Matt Baron/BEI/Shutterstock (14240584ea)

Young Mazino got his big break with the role in Netflix’s Beef just last year, and his future is looking bright! He’ll be a part of another hit series, after being cast as Jesse in HBO’s acclaimed adaptation of the beloved video game The Last of Us.

Jesse was introduced in The Last of Us Part II, and he was even available as a playable character in the No Return mode. He’s been described as a pillar of his community who puts everyone else’s needs before his own, sometimes at terrible cost.

The Last of Us co-creators, writers, and executive producers Craig Mazin and Neil Druckmann confirmed Mazino’s casting and said they can’t wait to see him join the rest of the cast, which includes Pedro Pascal, Bella Ramsey, and the recently cast Kaitlyn Dever.

“Young is one of those rare actors who is immediately undeniable the moment you see him. We’re so lucky to have him, and we can’t wait for the audience to see Young shine in our show,” said the duo in a statement.

Mazino broke into Hollywood with the role in Netflix’s limited series Beef and is currently in the running for an Emmy Award for outstanding supporting actor in a limited or anthology series or movie.