Bella Ramsey, the 21-year-old star of the hit HBO series "The Last of Us," recently shared a deeply personal revelation in an interview with British Vogue: she has been diagnosed with autism. The diagnosis, she explained, emerged during the filming of the show's first season, prompted by a crew member's observation.
While discussing her experiences, Ramsey said, "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 1 of ‘The Last of Us.’" This introspective comment came as a surprise to many fans, shedding light not only on her personal life but also reflecting broader conversations about autism and representation in the media.
According to Ramsey, the crew member's suggestion that she might be autistic stemmed from their own experiences with an autistic daughter. This conversation pushed her to seek a formal psychiatric evaluation, a step she felt was pivotal in her understanding of herself. She described moments of insecurity, admitting to feeling like a “weirdo” and a “loner” throughout her life.
“I always wondered if I had autism,” she shared, noting a painful awareness of social cues and body language that often left her confused and overwhelmed. Her insight into these challenges offers a unique perspective on the pressures facing young actors in the demanding industry.
Alongside her co-star, Pedro Pascal, 49, Ramsey has thrived in "The Last of Us," which captures a dystopian world ravaged by a fungal infection that turns humans into zombielike creatures. In this gripping tale, Pascal's character, Joel, becomes the protector of Ellie, portrayed by Ramsey, who is intriguingly immune to the disease. The show's unique premise and themes have resonated with audiences worldwide, further elevating Ramsey's status as a prominent emerging talent.
Interestingly, both Ramsey and Pascal are no strangers to the world of "Game of Thrones," where they played memorable roles in different seasons. Pascal's character, Oberyn Martell, was known for his charm and charisma, while Ramsey portrayed the fierce Lady Mormont, showcasing their versatility and depth as actors.
Reflecting on their past in the fantasy epic, Pascal once joked that his costume from "Game of Thrones" was far more comfortable than Ramsey's intricate attire. “My experience with ‘Game of Thrones’ was incredibly romantic,” he said while recalling the filming days to EW, humorously adding that Ramsey’s younger age allowed her to endure the discomfort better. Such lighthearted comments illustrate the camaraderie between the two actors, which undoubtedly enriches their on-screen partnership.
In terms of her own journey, Ramsey expressed the impact of her autism on her career. She shared with British Vogue, “I’ve always been watching and learning from people. Having to learn more manually how to socialize and interact with the people around me has helped me with acting.” This admission shines a light on the complex relationship between neurodivergence and creativity, suggesting that her unique perspective may enhance her performances.
The structured environment of the film set has also provided Ramsey with a sense of stability. She mentioned how having set routines helps her navigate daily activities: “I have a call time, and I’m told what to wear, how to stand, where to stand and what to eat.” This structured lifestyle contrasts sharply with her self-described challenges in more fluid social situations.
Perhaps most liberating for Ramsey was the moment she received her autism diagnosis. She expressed that understanding this aspect of herself was “freeing.” It provided her a new lens through which to view her everyday challenges. “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,” she articulated, emphasizing a crucial lesson on self-acceptance.
Fans of "The Last of Us" can look forward to Ramsey's return to the screen, as the show is set to premiere its second season on April 13, 2025, at 9 p.m. on HBO. The anticipation surrounding the new season, paired with Ramsey's revealing interview, has sparked conversations about autism awareness and acceptance, drawing attention to the importance of diverse voices in Hollywood.
As discussions about representation and the portrayal of neurodivergent individuals continue, Ramsey's journey in the public eye may just play a pivotal role in reshaping perceptions around autism. With every interview candor, she enhances understanding, championing a narrative that resonates with many who may have experienced similar feelings of isolation.