Imagine a world where Greek gods clash with modern-day heroes, and fungal zombies stalk a post-apocalyptic landscape. Seemingly unrelated, right? But what if I told you that the new season of Percy Jackson and the Olympians, now streaming, has a surprising connection to The Last of Us? It's a touching tribute that honors a true Hollywood pioneer.
The second season of Percy Jackson and the Olympians (based on Rick Riordan's beloved series) plunges us deeper into the world of Camp Half-Blood, sending Percy on a quest to The Sea of Monsters. The show, like the books, masterfully weaves Ancient Greek mythology into a contemporary setting, making these age-old tales relevant for a new generation.
But here's where it gets controversial... While Percy is battling mythical creatures, Joel and Ellie are fighting for survival against Clickers. What could these two vastly different worlds possibly have in common?
Well, the link isn't immediately obvious. You won't find any Cordyceps-infected demigods running around Camp Half-Blood! In the second episode, "Demon Pigeons Attack," Percy and his friends are more concerned with fending off attacking crows (using Mariah Carey's music, no less!) and competing in a thrilling chariot tournament.
And this is the part most people miss... It's not until the credits roll that the connection between Percy Jackson and The Last of Us becomes clear. A simple, yet powerful message appears on screen: "IN LOVING MEMORY OF A TRUE PIONEER – DANNY VIRTUE." The words are accompanied by a silhouette of two horses pulling a chariot, a nod to the episode's action-packed sequences.
So, who was Danny Virtue?
Danny Virtue was a highly respected producer and stunt coordinator, renowned for his expertise with horses. Throughout his impressive career, he contributed to over 1000 films and TV shows. Sadly, at the age of 76, Virtue passed away on September 4, 2025. His impressive filmography includes everything from The Twilight Saga and numerous Hallmark movies to, yes, The Last of Us.
Among his many achievements, Virtue created and executive-produced Neon Rider, a popular TV show from the early 90s. He later established Virtue Studio Ranch, a groundbreaking 200-acre film studio in British Columbia. Showing his commitment to helping others, in 2000, Virtue founded the Danny Virtue Foundation, a nonprofit organization that provides therapeutic experiences with horses in nature for young people.
Tragically, Virtue's passing came shortly after his marriage to his longtime love, Charlotte, in late August 2025. He was also the father of Clay Virtue, a stuntman who sadly passed away in 2017.
Before his death, Danny was collaborating with filmmaker Joel McCarthy on a documentary about his life. After Virtue's passing, McCarthy shared an interview clip where Virtue reflected on his legacy: "The movies and all, that was just my work. And I tried my hardest to do good. But basically, I just want people to remember me as a good friend. That’s it. No big deal."
But, let's be honest, Danny Virtue was a big deal.
Pedro Pascal, star of The Last of Us, acknowledged Virtue's contributions in a behind-the-scenes special. He stated, "I consider myself incredibly lucky to have worked with him and to witness his brilliant relationship to horses."
Pascal later shared the video on TikTok, adding a heartwarming caption: "Big thanks to Danny Virtue for teaching me how to ride without looking like I was clinging for dear life. Couldn’t have made it through those stunt sequences in Season 2 without him. The man’s a legend."
Kristoffer Polaha, known for his role in Jurassic World: Dominion, also paid tribute to Virtue, stating, "Danny was a virtue to the global film community. He taught me how to really ride a horse, but more than that, he ingrained in me a sense of the stunt culture. He was a pioneer, a legend, and let’s not be coy about it – rock n roll and punk rock all rolled up into his talent as a stuntman and producer.”
Polaha added, “He was also a leader. He cared. His foundation changed lives for the better and the world for good. He was my friend. He poured into ideas with enthusiasm and passion and I’ll miss him. Until next time.”
Virtue's work on set clearly touched the lives of many cast and crew members. More importantly, the legacy of his career has had a positive impact on countless viewers, including fans of Percy Jackson, The Last of Us, and many more.
What do you think about these kinds of tributes in TV shows? Do they make you appreciate the work of behind-the-scenes professionals more? Or do you think it's more important to focus on the fictional world of the show itself? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
