The Last of Us star Bella Ramsey has revealed that they were diagnosed with autism while filming season one of the hit HBO series. The actor, known for their roles in Game of Thrones and The Last of Us, shared their experience in an interview with British Vogue, calling the diagnosis “liberating.”
Ramsey, 21, said that a crew member on set noticed signs of autism and shared their thoughts with the actor. The conversation led Ramsey to seek a formal psychiatric assessment, which confirmed their diagnosis.
“I’ve spoken a bit about neurodivergence before, but I always for some reason didn’t want to say what it was,” Ramsey admitted. “I got diagnosed with autism when I was filming season one of The Last of Us.”
The revelation brought clarity to many of Ramsey’s past experiences, including feelings of being an outsider during school years. “I always wondered about it,” they said. “I felt like a weirdo and a loner at school, and I was very sensitive to certain sensory things.”
However, Ramsey explained that acting provided a structured environment that helped them navigate social situations. “I have a call time, and I’m told what to wear, how to stand, where to stand, and what to eat. It’s freeing,” they said. “It enables me to walk through the world with more grace towards myself about not being able to do the easy everyday tasks that everyone else seems to be able to do.”
Ramsey also spoke about the relief they felt after receiving the diagnosis, noting that it allowed them to “unmask immediately” and be more open about their experiences. “My experience of moving through the world is as an autistic person. There’s no reason for people not to know.”
Since rising to fame at 11 years old in Game of Thrones, Ramsey has navigated the challenges of the entertainment industry while dealing with personal struggles, including battling anorexia at age 12. They credit their close friendships, including their bond with The Last of Us co-star Pedro Pascal, as sources of support.
With the highly anticipated second season of The Last of Us set to premiere next month, Ramsey is embracing their journey with a renewed sense of self-awareness and confidence. “It’s a part of who I am,” they said. “And I’m proud of it.”
