The Last of Us has set an unfortunate record for 2023, making the Number 1 spot in a disappointing Top 10 list. The HBO series adapts the video game of the same name, following survivors Joel and Ellie on a journey through post-apocalyptic America. Critically praised for being a faithful adaptation, the show was one of the more popular series to premiere in 2023.
Now, TorrentFreak reports that The Last of Us season 1 was the most pirated TV show of 2023. The zombie apocalypse series beat out the likes of Loki season 2, Ahsoka, and Secret Invasion, becoming Number 1 on the disappointing list. While this record reflects just how popular the series is, it’s still an unfortunate list to be the top contender on.
The Most Pirated TV Shows Of The Year Were Streaming Originals
Interestingly, The Last of Us is the only show on the list that isn’t a streaming original series. While episodes aired on HBO and Max at the same time, it was produced specifically for the premium channel. Every other series that was heavily pirated in 2023 was made for streaming services, exhibiting the popularity of streaming originals throughout the year.
Top Pirated Shows of 2023 | Network |
The Last of Us | HBO |
The Mandalorian | Disney+ |
Loki | Disney+ |
Ahsoka | Disney+ |
Secret Invasion | Disney+ |
Silo | Apple TV+ |
Monarch: Legacy of Monsters | Apple TV+ |
Tulsa King | Paramount+ |
Gen V | Prime Video |
Ted Lasso | Apple TV+ |
Since The Last of Us is a successful video game adaptation, it makes sense for the show to have numerous people decide to watch it illegitimately. The list overall reflects the popularity of high-budget series that are available through premium access, even for those acquiring shows through piracy. However, it also indicates how big an issue online pirates can be for companies making big-budget series.
Given its top spot on the list, it wouldn’t be surprising if The Last of Us season 2 managed to become highly pirated when it airs. It’s clear that piracy continues to be an issue for high-profile series, though given the vastness of the Internet, it’s unknown if a permanent solution could ever be put in place. For now, it’s an unfortunate list these series will have to be on, no doubt topped by other shows that will become popular in 2024.
