In a deeply personal revelation, Bella Ramsey, the Emmy-nominated star of HBO's "The Last of Us," shared insights about their autism diagnosis in an interview with British Vogue. The diagnosis came to light thanks to a crew member who recognized the signs during the filming of the series' first season.

Ramsey expressed that learning about their autism was a moment of liberation. “I’ve spoken a bit about neurodivergence before, but I always felt hesitant to openly declare what it was,” they admitted. “I got diagnosed with autism while filming season one of ‘The Last of Us.’”

The journey to diagnosis began when a crew member, whose daughter is on the autism spectrum, perceived qualities in Ramsey that led them to encourage the young actor to consider an evaluation. This prompted Ramsey to seek a formal psychiatric assessment, which confirmed their thoughts on their neurodivergence. They reflected on their feelings of isolation, describing themselves as a “weirdo” and a “loner,” all while grappling with the notion of autism they had often contemplated.

Ramsey is candid about their experiences with sensory sensitivity, stating they endure a heightened awareness of others' micro-expressions and body language—common traits among those on the spectrum. The actor described their diagnosis as “freeing,” allowing them to navigate daily life with greater self-acceptance regarding their challenges in completing tasks others may find simple.

Their journey has been one of growth, as Ramsey stated, “I’ve always been watching and learning from people. Having to learn manually how to socialize and interact has benefitted my acting.” The structured environment of set life plays a significant role in their routine, where they receive guidance on everything from call times to wardrobe choices, helping to alleviate some of the everyday uncertainties.

Bella Ramsey, who portrays Ellie Williams in "The Last of Us," is not just making waves in the entertainment industry but also breaking down barriers and raising awareness about autism. The show is set to return for its highly anticipated second season on April 13, promising to captivate audiences once more while resonating with their unique and inspiring story.

Stay tuned as Ramsey continues to inspire many with their journey of self-discovery and advocacy for neurodiversity!