Bella Ramsey from The Last of Us reveals how their autism diagnosis has surprisingly benefited their acting career.
British actor Bella Ramsey, renowned for their roles in "Game of Thrones" and "The Last of Us," has shared their experiences with autism, aiming to normalize the condition and encourage understanding among the public. Ramsey, who was diagnosed after a crew member's inspiration, has since revealed how their autism enhances their acting abilities.
In an interview with "Them," Ramsey explained that their diagnosis highlighted their highly perceptive nature, allowing them to be hyper-aware of others' emotions, micro-expressions, and body language. This unique perspective has proven beneficial in their acting endeavors.
Ramsey's diagnosis also provided clarity regarding feelings of displacement in school and sensory issues, such as discomfort wearing thermals on Canadian sets. Acting, with its predictable routines, aligns well with Ramsey's autism, offering a sense of comfort and familiarity. The actor has described their diagnosis as "freeing" and conducive to "walking through the world with more grace" towards themselves.
HBO Max subscribers can watch Ramsey in both seasons of "The Last of Us." With plans starting at $9.99 per month, viewers can stream the series without interruptions, with various subscription tiers available.
Findings from UCLA Health suggest that many individuals assigned female at birth remain undiagnosed with autism until they reach adulthood. A diagnosis, however, can provide explanations for symptoms, offer resources, and help build self-confidence in social situations.
Outside of their autism diagnosis, Ramsey, who is non-binary, has expressed opinions on gendered awards categories and the sudden fame that came with their role in "The Last of Us." As the lead in "The Last of Us" Season 2, Ramsey will continue to captivate audiences, with the second season's finale marking their entrance into the 2025 TV schedule.
As more celebrities open up about their autism journey, Ramsey's candidness may inspire others to explore the condition and seek help if they can relate to the actor's story.
Science and mental health often intertwine, as seen in Ramsey's case, where their autism diagnosis shed light on their unique abilities in acting, enhancing their emotional perception and micro-expression recognition. Celebrities like Ramsey can contribute to lifestyle and entertainment discussions, promoting a health-and-wellness approach that encourages understanding and acceptance of neurodiversity, thereby opening doors for people to seek help when needed. As more celebrities share their personal stories, there may be a ripple effect among the public, fostering a more inclusive and supportive society.
