Advertisement
Bella Ramsey, the actor best known for portraying Ellie in The Last of Us, recently opened up about being diagnosed with autism during the filming of the show’s first season. In an interview with British Vogue on March 19, Ramsey described their autism diagnosis as a moment of self-discovery and freedom, explaining how it helped them approach life with more self-compassion, particularly when it comes to tasks that might seem easy for others but are more challenging for them. “It enables me to walk through the world with more grace towards myself,” they said.
Ramsey had suspected for a long time that they might be on the autism spectrum, often feeling like a “weirdo” or a “loner” growing up. The realization came when a crew member on The Last of Us, whose daughter is autistic, noticed similar traits in Ramsey and suggested they might be on the spectrum. This sparked Ramsey to seek a formal psychiatric evaluation, which confirmed the diagnosis.
The actor went on to explain how their autism has shaped their acting. They pointed out that their need to consciously observe and learn social interactions has been an advantage, especially in understanding characters’ behavior. Furthermore, Ramsey shared how they experience heightened sensitivity to sensory details, such as micro-expressions and body language, which can be both challenging and beneficial for their work as an actor.
On set, Ramsey also found that the structure and routine of filming provide a sense of clarity, which can be especially comforting for autistic individuals. The clear instructions about what to wear, how to stand, and when to arrive give them a sense of organization and control. Ramsey will reprise their role as Ellie in The Last of Us Season 2, which is set to premiere on April 13 on HBO.