The Last Of Us Actor Bella Ramsey Opens Up About Autism Diagnosis After Co-Star Spots Signs

Autism diagnoses often occur at different points in life, and for some individuals, the moment of understanding can be a turning point. This was the case for actor Bella Ramsey, who learned they were autistic while working on the hit HBO series The Last of Us.

Ramsey, 21, recently shared their experience in an interview with British Vogue, explaining that the realization didn’t come as a shock but rather as a relief. Growing up, they often felt out of sync with the world around them, struggling to understand social cues and feeling like an outsider.

“I’ve always been watching and learning from people,” Ramsey said. “Having to learn more manually how to socialize and interact with the people around me has helped me with acting.”

On the set of The Last of Us, a crew member whose daughter is autistic suggested that Ramsey seek a formal assessment. After undergoing the evaluation, Ramsey finally had an explanation for years of feeling different.

“When I got my diagnosis, I felt free,” they told British Vogue. “It allows me to walk through the world with more grace toward myself regarding not being able to do the easy everyday tasks that everyone else seems to manage.”

They received their autism diagnosis during the filming of The Last of Us.

Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how people communicate, relate to others, and process sensory information. According to the NHS, while common signs include difficulty with communication, heightened sensitivity to sensory input, and repetitive behaviors, the condition varies widely from person to person. Autism isn’t an illness—it’s simply a different way of experiencing the world.

Many autistic individuals aren’t diagnosed until adulthood. Experts say this is especially true for women and nonbinary individuals, who often learn to mask their differences and fit in socially, delaying recognition of their own needs and challenges.

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The star shared their experience with being diagnosed with autism.

Ramsey described some of the sensory issues they face, including a heightened awareness of others’ facial expressions and body language. While sometimes painful, these sensitivities sharpen their attention to detail in their craft.

Before their diagnosis, Ramsey often felt like a "loner" or a "weirdo" while growing up. However, instead of allowing those feelings to hold them back, they found ways to channel their observations into their performances.

“I’ve always been curious about why I feel different,” Ramsey said. “Now I know why, and that knowledge helps me understand myself better.”

Learning about autism has given Ramsey permission to adjust expectations—both their own and those of others—when it comes to everyday tasks that neurotypical people might take for granted. It also reinforced that being autistic doesn’t need to be hidden or fixed.

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Ramsey’s openness about their diagnosis contributes to a growing conversation around autism awareness and acceptance. By sharing their story, they hope to make it easier for others who might recognize similar traits in themselves to seek answers.

“Autism doesn’t define me, but it explains a lot,” Ramsey said. “There’s no reason for people not to know.”

Their honesty offers a straightforward message: discovering you’re autistic can be a relief, not a setback. It’s an opportunity to understand yourself better, build self-compassion, and navigate life with greater clarity regarding your own strengths and challenges.

Understanding Autism and Its Impact

Dr. Stephen Shore, an autism advocate and professor at Adelphi University, emphasizes that many individuals on the spectrum, like Bella Ramsey, often experience a sense of isolation before their diagnosis.

His research highlights how understanding one’s neurodiversity can lead to profound personal empowerment and improved mental health outcomes.

Dr. Shore states, “Autism is not a limitation, but rather a different way of experiencing the world, which can be liberating for many.”

He recommends that families and individuals seek support from local autism organizations, which can provide resources and community connections that foster understanding and acceptance.

Therapists often note that a late diagnosis can lead to feelings of relief, as described by Bella Ramsey. Dr. Susan David, an expert in emotional agility, explains that recognizing one’s identity can be a pivotal moment in healing.

According to her research, embracing one's authenticity facilitates a deeper connection to oneself and others, empowering individuals to express their unique perspectives.

She advises individuals navigating similar journeys to engage in self-reflection and to seek community support, which can mitigate feelings of loneliness and foster connection.

Moreover, practicing mindfulness can help maintain emotional balance during this period of adjustment.

Bella Ramsey's experience sheds light on the importance of understanding and accepting neurodiversity. Research indicates that embracing one's identity can lead to improved mental health and social connections.

Experts like Dr. Stephen Shore advocate for community support, emphasizing that connecting with others who share similar experiences can be invaluable. This sense of belonging not only reduces feelings of isolation but also fosters resilience.

Ultimately, the journey towards self-acceptance is deeply personal, and seeking therapeutic strategies, such as mindfulness and emotional agility, can significantly enhance this transformative process.