Bella Ramsey, the gifted star of HBO’s hit series “The Last of Us,” recently opened up about their personal and empowering experience with an autism diagnosis.
This revelation came to light while filming the show’s first season, thanks to a crew member who had a hunch that Ramsey might be autistic based on their behavior.
This crew member, who has an autistic daughter, recognized certain signs that aligned with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), which led Ramsey to seek a formal evaluation. That moment marked the start of a transformative journey for Ramsey, as they began to embrace their neurodivergence, finding it both liberating and freeing.
Bella Ramsey’s road to diagnosis was shaped not just by the crew member’s observations but also by their own feelings of being different throughout their life. As a child, Ramsey often described themselves as a “weirdo” and a “loner,” constantly wondering if they might be on the autism spectrum.
Their experiences were further complicated by sensory sensitivities, as well as a heightened awareness of others’ subtle expressions and body language—common traits among autistic individuals. Receiving the diagnosis brought much-needed clarity and understanding, enabling Ramsey to approach life with greater self-compassion and grace.
The diagnosis has had a remarkably positive effect on Ramsey’s acting career. They’ve discovered that their autism actually enhances their ability to observe and learn from others, which is incredibly valuable in their line of work.
The structured environment of a film set, with its clear routines and guidelines, also offers a sense of comfort and stability for Ramsey. By integrating their neurodivergence into their work, they’ve not only honed their craft but also become more authentic and open about their experiences.
