In the age of social media, where every celebrity move is scrutinized, Bella Ramsey, the 21-year-old star of HBO’s The Last of Us, has found themselves at the center of a storm. Recently dubbed “Hollywood’s Most Hated Actor” by some online critics, Ramsey’s reaction to the harsh label has been nothing short of inspiring. Far from shrinking under the weight of negativity, the non-binary actor, known for their breakout role as Lyanna Mormont in Game of Thrones, has clapped back with resilience and authenticity, offering a masterclass in handling online hate. This article dives into Ramsey’s response, the reasons behind the backlash, and why their story resonates with so many.
The controversy began when Ramsey was cast as Ellie in The Last of Us, HBO’s adaptation of the acclaimed video game. While the series has been lauded as one of the best video game adaptations, not all fans were pleased with Ramsey’s casting. Some criticized their appearance, arguing they didn’t match the “computer-generated” look of Ellie from the game. Others took issue with Ramsey’s non-binary identity and progressive views, with vitriol spilling across platforms like Reddit, X, and Instagram. Grotesque memes and cruel comments, from calling Ramsey “the ugliest woman on the planet” to questioning their acting chops, have flooded online spaces, often fueled by a subset of fans aligned with toxic ideologies.
This isn’t new in Hollywood. Actresses like Rachel Zegler (Snow White) and Halle Bailey (The Little Mermaid) have faced similar online abuse, often targeting their appearance, race, or ideology. Ramsey’s case, however, highlights a troubling trend in the gaming community, where some fans fixate on physical differences between actors and their digital counterparts. In a 2025 interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Ramsey admitted the scrutiny took a toll: “I got quite fixated on the way that Ellie looks in the game and [her] muscle definition … My body type isn’t that … It was a challenge for me to let myself off the hook for not looking computer-generated.”
Rather than engaging with the haters, Ramsey made a bold move: they deactivated their social media accounts, including Instagram and Twitter (now X), which they’d had since age 12. “It wasn’t like this big dramatic thing,” they told The Hollywood Reporter. “If I just avoid Twitter and Reddit, which now I’m doing, then everything’s totally fine.” This decision wasn’t about retreating but reclaiming their peace. Ramsey, who has always prioritized mental health, found inspiration in actors like Kit Harington, their Game of Thrones co-star, who also avoids social media.
Ramsey’s defiance shines through in their refusal to let the hate define them. “It’s the first time I’ve ever had a negative reaction to something,” they shared with The New York Times, reflecting on their early days of fame. Yet, their performance as Ellie earned them Emmy and Golden Globe nominations, proving their talent speaks louder than the trolls. Fans have rallied behind them, with one X user writing, “Bella is a great actor. All I care about.” Another called out the absurdity of the hate: “It’s weird seeing man-babies cry about how an actress looks in comparison to a computer game character.”
Ramsey’s experience underscores a deeper issue in Hollywood: the relentless pressure on young actors, particularly those who don’t fit conventional molds. At just 11, Ramsey was told they didn’t have the “Hollywood look” during an audition, a comment that highlights the industry’s often unattainable standards. Their neurodivergence and non-binary identity, which they’ve openly discussed, add another layer to their story. On The Louis Theroux Podcast, Ramsey explained, “I grew up more as a little boy than I did a little girl … It’s been very obvious since I was young.” Their authenticity has inspired many, with fans on X praising their courage: “Bella’s living their truth, and that’s what matters.”
The hate Ramsey faces also reflects a broader cultural divide. The “MAGA crowd,” as described by EL PAÍS, often targets actors who challenge traditional norms, hurling insults rooted in misogyny, homophobia, or transphobia. Yet, Ramsey remains unfazed, focusing on their craft and advocacy. They’ve championed climate causes, supported the Green Rider contract, and even pursued an environmental science module at Open University.
Bella Ramsey’s journey is a powerful reminder that talent and authenticity can outshine hate. Their decision to step away from social media, coupled with their unwavering commitment to their craft, resonates with anyone who’s faced online bullying. For young fans, Ramsey is a beacon of hope, showing that it’s possible to rise above criticism and stay true to oneself. Their story is perfect for Facebook’s algorithm, which favors emotionally engaging, relatable content. Share this article to spark a conversation about resilience, representation, and the power of standing tall in the face of adversity.
