Bella Ramsey, the talented actor behind Ellie in HBO‘s The Last of Us, has captivated audiences with their raw and emotional performance. As the highly anticipated second season approaches, Ramsey has opened up about their character’s evolution, their personal journey with autism, and the challenges of growing up in the public eye.
From their breakout role in Game of Thrones to becoming a leading star in one of television’s most acclaimed series, Ramsey’s story is one of resilience, growth, and authenticity.
Ellie’s Evolution in Season 2
Season 2 of The Last of Us picks up five years after the events of the first season, with Ellie now 19 years old. Ramsey has shared insights into how Ellie’s character has matured, reflecting the emotional weight of the post-apocalyptic world she inhabits.
“Ellie is a little harder this season,” Ramsey revealed in a recent interview. “She’s more like Joel in some ways, but she still has her sense of humor. It’s exciting to step back into her skin with new revelations about her and about myself.”
The tension between Ellie and Joel, played by Pedro Pascal, is a central theme in the upcoming season. The fallout from Joel’s lie at the end of Season 1 creates a rift between the characters, adding layers of complexity to their relationship.
“It was quite horrible to play,” Ramsey admitted. “Ellie is very justified in her feelings, but it was sad to act out that tension with Pedro because we’re so close off-screen.”

Navigating Autism in the Spotlight
Ramsey recently shared that they were diagnosed with autism while working on the first season of The Last of Us. The revelation has been a turning point, allowing them to embrace their identity and inspire others.
“I used to say I was neurodiverse, but then I thought, why not just say what it is? I’m autistic,” Ramsey said. “It’s something I’m proud of, and I hope it brings more awareness and reduces stigma.”
Their openness about autism has resonated with fans, highlighting the importance of representation and acceptance in the entertainment industry. Ramsey’s journey serves as a reminder that neurodiverse individuals can thrive in any field, including Hollywood.
Growing Up on Screen
Ramsey’s career began at the age of 13 when they landed the role of Lyanna Mormont in Game of Thrones. Now 21, they’ve spent nearly a decade navigating the challenges of fame and the loss of privacy that comes with it.
“Part of being an actor is that people expect you to have answers to every question,” Ramsey shared. “But sometimes the answer is, ‘I don’t know, and I’m not ready to talk about that.’”
Despite the pressures, Ramsey has found joy in their craft and formed lasting friendships, including their close bond with co-star Pedro Pascal. “Me and Pedro love each other deeply,” Ramsey said. “I couldn’t imagine doing this without him.”

The Impact of The Last of Us
The first season of The Last of Us was a critical and commercial success, earning eight Emmy nominations and becoming HBO’s most-watched debut season. Ramsey’s portrayal of Ellie was praised for its emotional depth and authenticity, solidifying their status as a leading actor.
Season 2 promises to delve deeper into Ellie’s journey, introducing new characters and exploring themes of love, loss, and survival. Fans can expect a more intense and emotionally charged narrative, with Ramsey at the heart of it all.
Final Thoughts: A Star Who Inspires
Bella Ramsey’s journey is one of resilience, authenticity, and growth. Their openness about autism and their ability to bring complex characters to life have made them a role model for fans around the world.
As The Last of Us Season 2 premieres, Ramsey’s evolution as Ellie and as an individual will undoubtedly continue to inspire and captivate audiences.
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