The television adaptation of The Last of Us, a post-apocalyptic drama based on the critically acclaimed video game, has captivated audiences worldwide since its debut. At the heart of the series is Bella Ramsey, the young actress tasked with bringing the iconic character Ellie to life. While the show has garnered widespread praise for its storytelling, visuals, and performances, Ramsey’s journey has not been without its challenges. During the broadcast of the series, she opened up about the intense scrutiny she faced, particularly regarding her appearance, and how it took a toll on her emotional well-being. Her candid reflections offer a rare glimpse into the pressures of stepping into such a beloved role and the resilience required to navigate public criticism.
Ramsey, who rose to prominence with her role as Lyanna Mormont in Game of Thrones, was no stranger to the spotlight before The Last of Us. However, the scale of attention that came with portraying Ellie—a character cherished by millions of gamers—brought a new level of intensity. In interviews and public statements, she revealed that the backlash she encountered was unlike anything she had experienced before. “This is the first time I have received a negative reaction to something,” she confessed. The criticism, often centered on her physical appearance rather than her acting ability, struck a deeply personal chord. For an actress still in her formative years, both professionally and personally, the weight of such feedback was undeniable.
Social media, a double-edged sword for modern celebrities, amplified the noise surrounding Ramsey’s casting. While many fans celebrated her performance, others were quick to voice their discontent, comparing her to the game’s version of Ellie and questioning whether she fit the role. Ramsey admitted to dipping her toes into this online discourse, only to find it overwhelming. “Sometimes I find it quite funny,” she said, “but after surfing social media for about 10 minutes, I turn off my phone and say to myself: ‘Maybe I shouldn’t do that.’” Her decision to step away from the digital fray reflects a self-awareness that belies her age, a recognition that engaging with negativity could erode her confidence rather than bolster it.
Despite the external pressures, Ramsey’s internal battle with self-doubt has been just as significant. Playing Ellie required her to embody a complex character—gritty, vulnerable, and fiercely independent—under the watchful eyes of a passionate fanbase. The mixed reviews of her performance, coupled with the personal attacks, initially shook her belief in herself. Yet, over time, she began to find her footing. “It’s only recently that I’ve really accepted that I’m Ellie, that I can do it and that I’m a good actress,” she shared. This moment of self-acceptance marked a turning point, a quiet triumph over the voices—both external and internal—that sought to undermine her. Still, Ramsey acknowledged the fragility of this newfound confidence: “But maybe that feeling only lasts for a few weeks, then I go back to thinking that I’m terrible.” Her honesty lays bare the ebb and flow of self-esteem, a universal struggle magnified by the glare of fame.
Ramsey’s experience underscores the broader challenges faced by actors in the age of instant feedback. Unlike the game developers who crafted Ellie’s story over years, or even her co-star Pedro Pascal, who plays Joel with a seasoned perspective, Ramsey entered The Last of Us as a young performer still honing her craft. The role demanded not just talent but an emotional resilience few could muster under such scrutiny. Her ability to laugh at some of the criticism, to step back from social media, and to gradually embrace her place as Ellie speaks to a maturity that transcends her years. It’s a reminder that behind every celebrated performance lies a human navigating the highs and lows of public perception.
The success of The Last of Us—both critically and commercially—has solidified Ramsey’s status as a rising star. Her portrayal of Ellie, marked by raw intensity and quiet strength, has won over many of her initial detractors. Yet, her reflections reveal that the journey to this point was neither linear nor easy. The pressure to meet expectations, to withstand personal critiques, and to grow into a role as monumental as Ellie’s tested her in ways she hadn’t anticipated. Through it all, Ramsey has emerged not just as an actress capable of carrying a blockbuster series, but as a voice for authenticity in an industry often obsessed with perfection.
As The Last of Us continues to resonate with viewers, Bella Ramsey’s story serves as a poignant subplot—one of perseverance amid adversity. Her willingness to share the unfiltered truth about her struggles invites empathy and admiration. In a world quick to judge, she reminds us that even those who seem destined for greatness must wrestle with doubt, and that the path to self-belief is rarely a straight line. For Ramsey, accepting herself as Ellie may be an ongoing process, but it’s one she’s determined to navigate on her own terms.
