Bella Ramsey has never followed a traditional path. From stealing scenes in Game of Thrones
as a 13-year-old to heading up one of HBO’s biggest series with The Last of Us
, they have grown up on screen with characters that demand heart, grit, and raw emotion. Whether swinging swords or surviving a post-apocalyptic world, Bella Ramsey brings something distinctively real to every role — and off-screen, their story is just as powerful.
From breakout battles in Westeros to surviving infected chaos in America, Bella Ramsey’s journey has been anything but ordinary. Now, a personal discovery made during filming is giving fans a deeper look into what also truly fuels their powerful performances on screen.
How Bella Ramsey found freedom in autism
Bella Ramsey is not just owning the screen, they are owning their story. While filming The Last of Us
season one, Bella Ramsey was diagnosed with autism
and recently told BBC they are “glad”
to have it. For Ramsey, the diagnosis brought clarity and a powerful sense of freedom.
“My experience is just as valid as other people’s, ”
they stated, proudly embracing a part of themselves that once felt confusing. This personal revelation came right as Ellie’s journey began capturing hearts worldwide.
By the time Bella was 13, they had already appeared in Game of Thrones
. At 19, and as the lead in The Last of Us
, one of HBO’s biggest hits. Now 21, Bella Ramsey shared with BBC Newsbeat how season two brings more emotional weight, particularly with Ellie’s complicated relationship with Joel
. While Bella’s actual relationship with their dad is the opposite of what is depicted on screen, they credit autism with helping them tap into deeper emotional truths — and say it makes them feel “more free”
.
Read More: Decade-Long ‘The Last of Us’ Casting Controversy Takes New Turns With Elliot Page and Bella Ramsay
Spoiler alert, major plot developments ahead for The Last of Us fans
HBO is not wasting any time—The Last of Us
is already locked in for season 3, and fans are buzzing! Just days before season 2 dropped in April 2025, the renewal news hit
. Season 2 picks up the intensity as Joel and Ellie’s relationship is tested in new ways, with the world around them growing darker. But with such an epic storyline still ahead, it is no surprise that HBO is eager to keep this post-apocalyptic rollercoaster going.
‘The Last of Us’ has been confirmed for Season 3 by HBO pic.twitter.com/89W1NqcDJA
— Dexerto (@Dexerto) April 9, 2025
Season 2 does not hold back, diving deep into Joel and Ellie’s evolving relationship
, but the real excitement is all about what is next. With Joel’s fate hanging in the balance and Abby’s looming presence, fans are on the edge of their seats. Will season 3 bring Ellie’s ultimate showdown with Abby? Or will there be more twists in store? Either way, the third season promises to crank up the tension
even more!
What do you think of Bella Ramsey’s journey and the emotional depth they bring to Ellie? Let us know in the comments below!
