McConaughey turned down Joel role in HBO's The Last of Us

Matthew McConaughey has revealed he turned down the role of Joel in HBO's "The Last of Us" series, a part that ultimately went to Pedro Pascal. The actor explained his decision during a recent interview on the "Happy Sad Confused" podcast, stating he was not focused on acting at the time the offer was made.

McConaughey said he seriously considered the role but was in a period where he was "doing more writing and looking at leadership roles in life." He praised the project, calling the script "really good" and noting he was excited about it. However, he concluded that "The Last of Us was really good, it just wasn't for me at the time." He added that he is not a frequent television viewer and reflected on the long-term commitment a successful series requires. "A series, you do have to consider, of course, well, you want this to succeed. Well, in success, this is something you'll be doing for years and years and years. Do I want, you know, for that to be the case in success?" he said.

The casting discussion was previously confirmed by "The Last of Us" showrunner Craig Mazin, who also appeared on the same podcast. Mazin indicated the conversation with McConaughey was brief and not a...