Bella Ramsey, previously starring in The Game of Thrones and currently shooting for the HBO drama, The Last of Us was recently diagnosed with Autism.
Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects how individuals interact, communicate, learn and behave. It is a spectrum, which varies from “mild” to “severe” depending on each individual. Autistic individuals may face difficulty interacting, expressing emotions, and repeating behaviors.
The star revealed about their diagnosis in an interview with British Vogue, “I’ve spoken a bit about neurodivergence before, but I always for some reason didn’t want to,” Ramsey admitted. “I got diagnosed with autism when I was filming season one of The Last of Us.”
While filming the show, a crew member with an autistic daughter observed similarities between Ramsey and their daughter’s behaviors. This prompted Ramsey to seek a formal psychiatric evaluation, leading to their diagnosis.
Ramsey reflects on how this affected their childhood, with them often feeling out of place in school but more at ease around adults.
They also described experiencing atypical sensory sensitivities common among autistic individuals, including a heightened awareness of others’ micro-expressions and body language. They also recalled discomfort while shooting in the cold Canadian weather, which required them to wear heavy waterproof gear and thermals, describing it as “too much stuff on my body.”
Despite these challenges, Ramsey also expressed how autism has enabled them to become a better actor and polish their acting skills. Observing people and following a set routine has helped their performance.
“I’ve always been watching and learning from people. Having to learn more manually how to socialize and interact with the people around me has helped me with acting,” they said. “I have a call time, and I’m told what to wear, how to stand, where to stand and what to eat.”
They further state how their diagnosis has been “freeing”, enabling them to “unmask immediately” allowing them to be their authentic self, while learning more about themselves.
The star serves an inspiration for many by openly talking about their diagnosis without any shame. “My experience of moving through the world is as an autistic person,” they said. “There’s no reason for people not to know.”
Bella Ramsey’s openness towards their diagnoses not only challenges societal stigmas surrounding neurodivergence but also provides support and confidence to individuals on the spectrum by making them feel heard, empowering them to express themselves. Their courage serves as a powerful reminder for self-acceptance and motivates people to be their true, authentic self, without fearing judgement.
