The second season of The Last of Us , which premiered on April 14, 2025 on Max, has been a cultural phenomenon, but it has also generated controversy following a recent report that Bella Ramsey, who plays Ellie, vomited immediately after filming a kissing scene with an unidentified Black actress. Although there is no concrete evidence to support this claim, the rumor, which began circulating on platforms like X in early May, has sparked speculation and debate about the atmosphere on set, Ramsey’s health, and the possible implications of the news. This incident, true or not, has added a new layer of scrutiny to a series already marked by intense discussions about representation and production dynamics.

Bella Ramsey, 21, has been in the spotlight since taking on the role of Ellie in 2023. Her portrayal has been acclaimed by critics and fans, but she has also faced criticism from some quarters for her appearance and non-binary identity. The second season, which adapts events from The Last of Us Part II , includes key moments such as Ellie’s romantic relationship with Dina, played by Isabela Merced. However, the vomit rumor does not mention Merced, but rather an unidentified “Black actress,” which has led to confusion, as no kiss scenes with such a description have been confirmed in episodes aired as of May 2025. This suggests that the rumor could be a distortion or a fabrication, possibly fueled by the polarization surrounding the series.

The context of the rumor is particularly sensitive given Ramsey’s history with emetophobia, an intense fear of vomiting that the actress has publicly discussed. In a May 2025 interview with The Louis Theroux Podcast , Ramsey revealed that this phobia led her to avoid leaving the house for months when she was 13, describing the outside world as a germy threat. Additionally, her autism diagnosis, received during filming of the first season, has influenced how she handles high-pressure environments. The combination of these factors could explain an extreme physical reaction on set if the incident did indeed occur, but the lack of specific details and no official comment from HBO or Ramsey keep the story speculative.

The mention of a “Black actress” in the rumor has raised concerns about possible racial undertones in the narrative. The Last of Us has been praised for its diverse representation, but has also faced criticism for the treatment of non-white characters in the original video game. If the rumor is false, it could be an attempt to inflame racial tensions or discredit Ramsey, who has been the target of online harassment for her gender identity and advocacy for inclusivity. On the other hand, if the incident did occur, it raises questions about the support offered to actors in emotionally charged scenes, especially in a production known for its physical and psychological intensity.

Filming for the second season, which took place in Alberta, Canada, was described by Ramsey as grueling. In interviews with The Hollywood Reporter and the Los Angeles Times , the actress discussed the emotional demands of playing Ellie, especially following the death of Joel (Pedro Pascal) in the second episode. Scenes such as the one in the closet, where Ellie cries upon smelling Joel’s jacket, were particularly difficult due to Ramsey’s difficulty crying in public. Although a vomit-inducing kissing scene was not specifically mentioned, the actress has admitted to suffering physical injuries, including a busted lip and bruises, underscoring the demanding conditions on set.

The reaction on social media has been mixed. Some users have expressed concern for Ramsey’s mental health, while others have questioned the veracity of the rumor, noting that it could be an exaggeration of a minor incident or a complete fabrication. The absence of an official statement has allowed speculation to fester, somewhat overshadowing the artistic achievements of the season, which has been praised for its storytelling and the performances of Ramsey, Merced, and Kaitlyn Dever.

Ultimately, this rumor reflects the challenges of fame in the digital age, where sensationalized narratives can spread quickly. For Ramsey, whose career includes roles in Game of Thrones and Catherine Called Birdy , the controversy is yet another obstacle on a path marked by talent and resilience. As The Last of Us continues to air episodes, viewers are hoping for clarity on this incident, but also celebrating a series that continues to push the boundaries of television drama.