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'Get your priorities straight': 'The Last of Us's Storm Reid defends show amid homophobic backlash

Storm Reid is introduced as Riley in 'The Last of Us' Episode 7 as part of Ellie's backstory

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Storm Reid has responded to criticisms 'The Last of Us' received after a recent episode highlighted the relationship between Nick Offerman's Bill and Murray Bartlett's Frank.

Reid acknowledged that the anticipated homophobic reaction did cross her mind as the release of her own featured episode, which would have more significant LGBT representation, approached. The 19-year-old actress, though, is unconcerned about it. “Like Bella said when episode 3 came out: If you don’t like it, don’t watch,” Reid told Entertainment Weekly in an interview, referring to her costar Bella Ramsey's comments to GQ UK. 

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'It's 2023'

"We are telling important stories. We're telling stories of people's experiences, and that's what I live for. That's what makes good storytelling, because we are telling stories of people who are taking up space in the world," Reid added in her conversation with EW.

"It's 2023. If you're concerned about who I love, then I need you to get your priorities straight," Reid said, addressing homophobic criticisms of Ellie and Riley's relationship. "There's so many other things to worry about in life. Why are you concerned that these young people — or anybody — love each other? Love is beautiful, and the fact that people have things to say about it, it's just nonsense."

What happens in Episode 7 of 'The Last Of Us'?

The episode covers Ellie's training in the Boston QZ to become a FEDRA soldier. When the episode starts, Riley, her roommate and best friend, has been AWOL for a few weeks. Then, one night, Riley sneaks back in via Ellie's dorm room window. Riley wants to spend one special night with Ellie before joining the Fireflies and departing Boston. Ellie and Riley share their first kiss after breaking into an abandoned shopping center where they have fun on the carousel, the arcade, the "moving stairs," and the picture booth.

'F*ck the haters'

Fans have expressed their support to Reid's comments made during her interview. One user commented, "You were amazing tonight and I look forward to seeing more of you. Truly great work. ♥️♥️" Another wrote, "Loved the episode and love your stance on this! ❤️" Someone else said, "I am loving it so far.... f*ck the haters. Ep. 7 was awesome. :)"

'The Last Of Us' is streaming on Hotstar.

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