‘The Last of Us’ Sex Scene: Isabela Merced Opens Up About Dina and Ellie’s Romance

May 5, 2025 Najuk Priya TV Shows 0

Isabela Merced on Bringing Authenticity to "The Last of Us" Sex Scene and Queer Identity

In a recent interview, “The Last of Us” star Isabela Merced opened up about her experiences portraying Dina, Ellie’s romantic interest, and her thoughts on LGBTQ representation in the hit HBO series.

The actress, known for her work in both film and television, discussed the complexities of bringing genuine intimacy to her character and why her role matters in the broader conversation about inclusivity on-screen.

"The Last of Us" Star Isabela Merced Shares Insights on Portraying Queer Characters and Leading LGBTQ Representation — “The Last of Us” Star Isabela Merced Shares Insights on Portraying Queer Characters and Leading LGBTQ Representation

Merced emphasized the importance of authenticity when filming the intimate scenes between Dina and Ellie.

“Getting that sex scene right was a challenge,” she admitted, “but I wanted it to feel real and respectful. It’s about portraying genuine relationships, especially ones that aren’t often represented in mainstream media.” She also pointed out how crucial it is to depict LGBTQ relationships with honesty, saying, “No one actually thinks I’m queer, but I want to show these stories because they matter.”

The actress praised the show’s creators for their dedication to diversity, noting that the series balances storytelling with representation in a natural way.

“It’s encouraging to see a show like this approach LGBTQ characters with sensitivity and depth,” Merced explained, “rather than stereotypes or tokenism. That’s why I was proud to be part of it.”, reported Variety.

When asked about how she approaches her role, Merced shared that she aims to bring nuance and authenticity to Dina. “Playing this part has made me reflect on my own views and understand the importance of visibility for LGBTQ youth,” she said. She also reflected on her personal experience, noting that she doesn’t identify as queer herself, but she believes deeply in supporting diverse stories for all audiences.

Ultimately, Merced hopes her portrayal will help normalize same-sex relationships and spark conversations about acceptance. “Characters like Dina can help challenge stigma and promote understanding,” she concluded. “That’s what makes this role so meaningful to me.”