Bella Ramsey, the acclaimed British actress known for her role as Ellie in HBO’s The Last of Us, has revealed that she was diagnosed with autism during the filming of the show’s first season. According to Variety, the revelation came after a member of the production team noticed similarities between Ramsey’s behavior and that of her own autistic daughter. This observation prompted Ramsey to undergo a formal psychiatric evaluation.

In an interview with British Vogue, Ramsey shared that she had long suspected she might be neurodivergent but had hesitated to address it publicly before now.

“I’ve briefly mentioned neurodivergence in the past, but I never specified what it was. I received my autism diagnosis while working on the first season of The Last of Us,” Ramsey explained.

For the actor, receiving this diagnosis felt like a weight had been lifted off her shoulders. She described it as a liberating experience that gave her a newfound sense of ease.

“It allows me to navigate the world with more kindness toward myself, especially when it comes to everyday tasks that might seem simple to others,” she said.

Ramsey also highlighted how her autism has unexpectedly become an asset in her acting career. Growing up, she often found herself observing people closely to understand their behavior and interactions—a skill that has proven invaluable in honing her craft.

“I’ve always had to learn how to watch people and figure out how to engage with them. That’s something that has really helped me in acting,” Ramsey reflected.

Her openness about her diagnosis not only sheds light on the diverse experiences of neurodivergent individuals but also serves as an inspiration to others who may be navigating similar paths. By embracing her identity, Bella Ramsey continues to break barriers both personally and professionally, proving that authenticity can be a powerful tool in creative expression.

Main image: x.com

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