Bella Ramsey Opens Up: Why Choosing Their Pronouns Was ‘Stressful’ but Empowering

In a heartfelt and eye-opening revelation, The Last of Us star Bella Ramsey has opened up about the emotional and personal journey behind choosing their pronouns—and why the process was far more stressful than many might assume. In an era where conversations about gender identity and expression are increasingly entering the mainstream, Ramsey’s candid admission is not only timely, but deeply relatable for millions.

A Moment of Vulnerability

During a recent interview, the 20-year-old non-binary actor, who uses they/them pronouns, discussed the internal battles and societal pressure they faced before finally embracing their identity. “It was stressful, honestly,” Ramsey admitted. “Not because I didn’t know who I was, but because I wasn’t sure how the world would respond.”

Their honesty struck a chord with fans around the globe, many of whom praised the young star for being so transparent about a topic that is often swept under the rug or misunderstood entirely. Ramsey’s experience reveals a crucial aspect of the gender identity conversation: the fear of rejection or confusion when stepping into one’s truth.

The Pressure to Label

Ramsey, who rose to international fame with their unforgettable portrayal of the fierce Lyanna Mormont in Game of Thrones, explained that while they had long felt out of place with traditional gender expectations, labeling themselves felt like yet another box to fit into.

“There’s this unspoken pressure—once you start talking about pronouns or gender—to have it all figured out,” they said. “But the truth is, it’s a journey. It’s not always linear, and that’s okay.”

It’s a statement that resonates strongly in 2025, as younger generations push back against binary norms and challenge outdated societal structures. Ramsey’s reflection encourages others to take their time and not rush a decision that is, at its core, deeply personal.

Hollywood’s Growing Acceptance

Ramsey is among a wave of young actors and public figures helping to reshape Hollywood’s relationship with gender identity. With increasing numbers of celebrities—such as Emma Corrin and Janelle Monáe—also identifying as non-binary or gender nonconforming, there is a growing demand for inclusivity both on screen and off.

Even so, the path has not been without difficulty. “When you’re in the public eye, it’s like everything is magnified,” Ramsey explained. “I worried about confusing people, about getting misgendered, or even being told I was doing it for attention. That really got to me.”

And yet, it’s precisely this honesty that is earning them admiration far beyond their acting chops. Ramsey’s courage to speak up, especially when the world is still learning how to hold space for non-binary voices, makes a lasting impact.

Not Just a Phase

For Ramsey, embracing their identity was not a publicity move or a fleeting decision—it was a vital step in their personal growth. They emphasized that pronouns are not a trend, but a fundamental part of how someone experiences the world.

“I didn’t choose to be non-binary,” they clarified. “But I did choose to stop hiding it. That’s where the stress came from—the fear of being misunderstood or rejected. But the relief of finally being seen for who I am? That made it worth it.”

The statement underscores the emotional toll that hiding one’s true self can take. At a time when LGBTQ+ rights are still being debated in courtrooms and classrooms alike, Ramsey’s words serve as a gentle but powerful reminder of the humanity behind the headlines.

Fans Rally in Support

The response to Ramsey’s candid interview has been overwhelmingly supportive. Social media flooded with affirming comments, hashtags like #WeLoveYouBella began trending, and fan accounts praised their bravery.

“I feel so seen,” one user tweeted. “Bella Ramsey’s journey mirrors mine in so many ways. It’s inspiring to see someone in their position speak up like this.”

This outpouring of love is a sign of how far the world has come—and how much further there still is to go. By sharing their story, Ramsey is doing more than advocating for themselves; they’re creating space for others to do the same.

A New Chapter

As their career continues to skyrocket—with more seasons of The Last of Us on the horizon and film roles lined up—Bella Ramsey is embracing both their talent and truth. And in doing so, they are redefining what it means to be a role model in today’s world.

“I’m not perfect,” Ramsey concluded. “But I’m real. And that’s all I’ve ever wanted to be.”