**Bella Ramsey Reflects on Growing Up and Embracing Identity in ‘The Last of Us’ Season 2**

**Bella Ramsey, now 21, shares their insights into life as an actor the night after the premiere of season two of The Last of Us, exploring deeper character connections and identity challenges.**

In a candid conversation, Bella Ramsey, best known for their portrayal of Ellie in HBO’s smash hit adaptation of The Last of Us, talks about their growth both on and off the screen in the upcoming second season. At just 21 years old, Bella reflects on a key personal decision made at age 11—to not conform to the "typical teenager" mold. Their transformative role as Ellie has thrust them into the limelight, with the show set to return after a successful first season, which won critical accolades and a strong audience following.

The narrative of The Last of Us unfolds in a harrowing, post-apocalyptic world where Ellie, immune to a deadly cordyceps fungus, embodies hope for humanity. In the first season, viewers witnessed a developing father-daughter bond between Ellie and Joel, played by Pedro Pascal, culminating in a gripping moral dilemma that left the season on a cliffhanger. As season two jumps five years ahead, Bella highlights the palpable tension between Ellie and Joel due to the hidden truths from their past experiences.

Despite their youth, Bella conveys deep reflections on these complex emotional arcs. While they portray Ellie, the intricate and fraught relationship presents challenges, particularly given Bella's own harmonious family dynamics. They express sadness at the dissonance between their personal relationships and those their character faces, underscoring Ellie’s justified feelings of betrayal.

The delay of season two with the 2023 Hollywood strikes has impacted Bella’s life significantly, offering them a unique opportunity to evolve alongside their character. As they re-enter Ellie’s world, Bella discusses how stepping into the character's shoes allows for both personal and collective revelation.

Bella's journey has also intersected with their own identity exploration; they openly share their diagnosis of autism, expressing pride in stepping away from stigma to advocate for broader awareness in the entertainment industry. Their authenticity stems from a desire to dismantle preconceived notions of neurodiversity, emphasizing that autism is multifaceted.

This season will delve into Ellie’s same-sex relationship with Dina, showcasing meaningful representation in storytelling. Bella notes the significance of portraying authentic queer narratives that resonate with real human experiences rather than serving as merely a checkbox for representation.

With a third season already commissioned, Bella reflects on growing up in the public eye, embracing both the challenges and the joy it brings. They articulate a sense of gratitude for the ongoing journey of personal and professional development, even as life’s uncertainties continue to unfold—a sentiment that mirrors Ellie’s own quest for understanding in an unpredictable world.

The Last of Us season two premieres on Sky and NOW streaming service on Monday, April 14, promising another thrilling chapter in this powerful narrative.