**Bella Ramsey Reflects on Growth and Representation Ahead of The Last of Us Season 2**

**Bella Ramsey, now 21, shares insights on playing Ellie in The Last of Us Season 2, her diagnosis of autism, and the nuanced portrayal of queer relationships in media.**

 

Bella Ramsey, the talented actor who portrays Ellie in HBO's highly anticipated second season of The Last of Us, reflects on her unique journey as she steps back into the character's complex world. Speaking to BBC Newsbeat after attending the London premiere, the Nottingham-native shared how becoming a prominent figure in television at a young age influenced her life choices.

"I made a definitive decision at 11 to avoid conventional teenage behavior," Bella noted, alluding to her experience in the industry, starting with the global sensation Game of Thrones when she was just 13. Now, at 21, she is preparing to dive once more into The Last of Us, a series that has successfully adapted the popular PlayStation game into a post-apocalyptic narrative.

The plot thickens as audiences rejoin Ellie five years after the turbulent events of Season 1, where her bond with the mercenary Joel, played by Pedro Pascal, faces new tensions. Season 2 promises to explore these complexities as Bella explained, “It was quite challenging to portray the new dynamics between Ellie and Joel given the events they went through previously.”

A pivotal part of Bella's life has been her journey with autism, which she publicly acknowledged during the filming of Season 1. "I proudly embrace my identity as autistic," this brave revelation has the potential to empower others within the industry and beyond. Bella emphasized the need for more open discussions regarding neurodiversity, stating, “There's a stigma that shouldn't exist.”

As the character Ellie navigates her own identity and relationships, viewers will witness her same-sex relationship with Dina, played by Isabella Merced, unfold in Season 2. Bella expresses excitement about how the series authentically delves into queer narratives, emphasizing that such stories should feel inherent to the characters rather than superficial additions.

With a third season already greenlit, Bella acknowledges that her growth as a person is mirrored in her portrayal of Ellie, stating, “With age comes the realization of how much more there is to learn, a sentiment reflected in Ellie's journey as well.”

As anticipation builds for The Last of Us Season 2, which premieres on April 14 on Sky and NOW, Bella's evolution in both her craft and personal journey is bound to captivate audiences further, affirming that her exploration of identity and belonging is a central theme that resonates deeply with fans.