Bella Ramsey, the talented star of HBO's hit series The Last of Us, recently made headlines by sharing that they were diagnosed with autism during the filming of the show's first season. In an intimate interview with British Vogue, Ramsey opened up about their diagnosis, revealing how a crew member with an autistic child prompted them to seek a psychiatric assessment.<\/p>
During the interview, Ramsey explained, "I’ve spoken a bit about neurodivergence before, but I always for some reason didn’t want to say what it was. I got diagnosed with autism when I was filming season one of The Last of Us." This revelation was not only significant for Ramsey but also came as a relief, as they described the diagnosis as freeing.
Prior to this assessment, Ramsey had always suspected that they might be on the autism spectrum. They admitted to feeling like a “weirdo” or a “loner” in school, which eventually led to the realization that they might have autism—something they had ``always wondered'' about. The diagnosis confirmed their suspicions and provided clarity about their experiences.
Ramsey also discussed the challenges that often accompany being autistic, such as sensory issues and heightened awareness of others’ non-verbal cues. They reflected on the pain of experiencing what they termed "painful hyperawareness of other people’s micro-expressions and body language." This characteristic, common among many individuals on the autism spectrum, influences how they navigate social interactions.
A significant aspect of the conversation centered around how the diagnosis has impacted Ramsey's work. They mentioned that their experiences of moving through the world have directly informed their craft as an actor. With a distinct daily routine on the set of The Last of Us, which includes defined call times and instructions on wardrobe and behavior, Ramsey feels more equipped to perform. "Having to learn more manually how to socialize and interact with the people around me has helped me with acting," they said.
This personal journey aligns perfectly with Ramsey's character, Ellie Williams, in The Last of Us, which returns for its much-anticipated second season on April 13, 2025. The show, based on the popular video game, has earned critical acclaim and is set to further explore the emotional depths of its characters.
In reflecting on the challenges faced by those who are neurodivergent, Ramsey remarked, "It enables me to walk through the world with more grace towards myself about not being able to do the easy everyday tasks that everyone else seems to be able to do." This powerful statement highlights the importance of understanding and acceptance within a broader societal context.
Moreover, their willingness to discuss their diagnosis serves as a source of inspiration for others who might be grappling with their own neurodivergence. Ramirez's public acknowledgment of their autism is particularly significant, as it helps demystify the condition and fosters conversation around mental health and acceptance.
As they prepare to reprise their role as Ellie, Ramsey's honesty shines a light on an often misunderstood subject. With an audience eagerly awaiting the next installment of The Last of Us, Ramsey's journey not only informs their performance but also resonates with many who have similar experiences.
Ultimately, Bella Ramsey's openness about their autism diagnosis stands as a testament to personal growth, acceptance, and the enhancing power of routine in navigating both personal and professional landscapes. Their story reinforces the necessity of understanding neurodiversity and promoting a culture of inclusion both on and off screen.
