Bella Ramsey, best known for playing Ellie in The Last of Us, recently spoke about the new season, being autistic, and growing up on screen.
Now 21, Bella first became famous at 13 when they starred in Game of Thrones. In The Last of Us, they play Ellie, a teenager who may hold the key to saving the world from a deadly infection that turns people into zombie-like creatures. Season 2 of the show begins five years after the dramatic ending of Season 1.
Bella says playing Ellie during this new chapter was challenging because of the tension between Ellie and Joel, her father-like figure. "It was quite horrible to play," they said, adding that unlike Ellie, they never had big fights with their real-life dad.
As Ellie turns 19 in Season 2, she’s closer in age to Bella, making the role feel even more personal. “There’s always a merging of me and whatever character I’m playing,” Bella explained.
Bella also shared something personal—they were diagnosed with autism during the filming of Season 1. “I'm autistic,” they said proudly, hoping to help others feel more confident talking about it too. “There shouldn’t be fear or stigma around it.”
In addition, Bella identifies as non-binary and uses they/them pronouns. Season 2 of The Last of Us explores Ellie’s relationship with Dina, another girl. Bella said the show does a great job of showing queer relationships in a natural, meaningful way. “It doesn’t feel forced,” they said. “It’s just part of the story.”
With Season 3 already confirmed, Bella will continue to grow up in front of audiences. “There are pros and cons,” they admitted. “But I feel grateful my growth is captured on screen.”
The Last of Us Season 2 premieres on Monday, April 14, on Sky and NOW.
