Fans of gripping television may have spotted a familiar face in the latest episode of The Last of Us. Tony Dalton, renowned for his unforgettable roles in shows like Better Call Saul and Hawkeye, steps into the world of post-apocalyptic drama as Javier Miller, Joel’s complicated and memorable father.
This season of The Last of Us has woven two main themes throughout its episodes: the relentless cycle of revenge and the pursuit of becoming a better person despite impossible circumstances. In episode 6, “The Price,” these themes collide as viewers are taken back to Joel’s youth in a powerful flashback featuring Dalton’s Javier. Here, young Joel is confronted about a fight but, instead of punishment, receives a rare moment of honesty from his father. Javier admits his own struggles with violence and a troubled upbringing, expressing hope that Joel will someday break the cycle and do better than the generations before him.
The flashback provides essential context for the season’s present-day narrative, where Joel, Abby, and Ellie all grapple with the aftermath of violence and the challenge of forgiveness. Joel’s efforts to be a better parent to Ellie and his late daughter Sarah stand in sharp contrast to the mistakes of his own father. This episode gives the audience a bittersweet reminder: while Joel was far from perfect, he strived to grow and care deeply for those closest to him, making his fate all the more affecting.
As the episode progresses, Joel finally confesses the truth about what happened with the Fireflies, coming clean to Ellie after she catches him in a lie reminiscent of his earlier deceptions. The scene is tense and emotional, capped by Joel echoing his father’s plea for the next generation to do better — a powerful, full-circle moment that’s heightened by Pascal and Dalton’s chemistry on screen.
Dalton’s casting as Javier Miller is both inspired and fitting. Not only does he resemble Pedro Pascal, but his commanding presence adds gravitas to the role. Dalton, who began his career in Mexican cinema and television, has recently become a familiar name to international audiences. He left a major impression as Lalo Salamanca in Better Call Saul, where his blend of charm and menace captivated critics and viewers alike. More recently, Dalton made appearances in Sense 8 and joined the Marvel universe as Jack Duquesne in Hawkeye and Daredevil: Born Again.
In The Last of Us, Dalton demonstrates once again that he’s an actor capable of depth, complexity, and unforgettable screen moments. Whether portraying villains or flawed fathers, his performances resonate. After his compelling turn as Javier, viewers will be watching to see where Tony Dalton turns up next in the world of television drama.
