Bella Ramsey Shares Her Autism Diagnosis Journey on "The Last of Us" Set: A Life-Changing Revelation

The Last Of Us The star Bella Ramsey received an autism diagnosis while working on the HBO series. The 21-year-old shared this surprising news, explaining how recognizing these indicators has been both "empowering" and "liberating" for her.

In an interview with British Vogue, Ramsey stated that their autism was identified when a team member observed it while they were shooting the film. The Final of Us Season 1 That's because the individual involved also has a daughter with autism and thus was well-aware of the specific symptoms.

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I've touched upon neurodiversity previously, but somehow I never wanted to specify what it entailed. It was during the first season of 'The Last of Us' that I received an autism diagnosis," Ramsey explained. "There’s absolutely no reason why people shouldn’t be aware of this.

Diagnosis and assessment

The actor promptly requested a professional psychiatric evaluation and diagnosis. Ramsey mentioned this was something they had “often pondered” because of their experience as an outcast at school, describing themselves as a “misfit” and a “solitary figure.” They further disclosed having sensory difficulties often associated with individuals on the autism spectrum. This involved experiencing “distressing hypersensitivity to others’ subtle facial expressions and physical cues.”

For Ramsey, though, the condition proved beneficial for their acting career. They stated, “I have constantly observed and learned from others. The necessity of learning how to socially engage and interact with those around me more deliberately has enhanced my skills as an actor.” In their view, receiving the diagnosis felt like liberation.

"This allows me to move through life with greater kindness toward myself regarding my inability to perform simple daily tasks that others seem to manage easily," they mentioned additionally.

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Bella Ramsey in The Last of Us

Bella Ramsey plays the character of Ellie in The Last of Us Ellie is a young survivor of an apocalypse caused by a deadly disease affecting mankind. Ramsey made history as the first non-binary performer to receive an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series.

The Last Of Us Also featuring Pedro Pascal, Season 2 is scheduled to debut on April 13 on HBO and Max.