
Bella Ramsey Opens Up About Growing Up and Playing Ellie in 'The Last of Us' Season 2
2025-04-13
Author: Sophie
Bella Ramsey's Unique Journey
At just 11 years old, Bella Ramsey made a daring choice to step away from a typical teenage life. Fast forward two years, and they had landed a breakout role in the global phenomenon, 'Game of Thrones.' Now, at 21, Bella finds themselves at the London premiere of the highly-anticipated second season of 'The Last of Us,' where their portrayal of Ellie has made them a standout star.
A Dystopian World and Complex Relationships
In 'The Last of Us,' a gripping adaptation of the beloved PlayStation game, Bella plays Ellie, a young girl who holds the fate of humanity in her hands—she’s immune to a deadly fungal infection that has turned most of humanity into monstrous creatures. The first season captivated audiences with the evolving father-daughter dynamic between Ellie and Joel, played by Pedro Pascal. After a harrowing journey across a ruined America, viewers were left at a heart-wrenching cliffhanger when Joel chose to save Ellie over humanity.
Tension on the Rise in Season Two
Now, as the new season unfolds five years later, Bella hints at the underlying tension between Ellie and Joel. 'It was quite horrible to play,' Bella reveals. They explain that while their relationship with their own father is strong, acting out those darker emotions for Ellie has been challenging. 'Ellie is justified in her feelings,' Bella adds, indicating that the complex familial dynamics will continue to be explored.
Personal Growth Amidst Professional Success
Since the filming of season one, Bella has undergone their own transformational journey, including publicly sharing their autism diagnosis. 'I felt it was time to be honest about who I am,' Bella states. This newfound openness about their neurodiversity has allowed them to embrace their identity and hopes to inspire others to do the same.
Breaking Boundaries with Authentic Representation
Identifying as non-binary, Bella also celebrates the show's deeper exploration of LGBTQ+ themes, particularly regarding Ellie’s relationship with her friend Dina. 'It feels authentic, not just added for representation’s sake,' Bella expresses. They are thrilled to depict a relationship that resonates with genuine emotion and contributes meaningfully to the storyline.
Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for Bella Ramsey
As Bella steps back into Ellie’s shoes for season two, they reflect on how much both they and the character have grown. 'It’s incredible to merge my experiences with those of Ellie, especially as our paths continue to intertwine.' With much anticipation surrounding the new season, fans can look forward to seeing how Bella brings a rich and relatable narrative to the screen.