Bella Ramsey: A Journey From Westeros to The Last of Us & Beyond

Published on: Jul 03, 2025

Bella Ramsey: A Rising Star's Trajectory

Bella Ramsey has quickly become a household name, captivating audiences with her powerful performances in critically acclaimed series like Game of Thrones and The Last of Us. Her journey from the icy landscapes of Westeros to the post-apocalyptic world of The Last of Us is a testament to her versatility, talent, and dedication to her craft. This article delves into her remarkable career, exploring her early roles, her breakthrough performances, the impact she has made, and what the future holds for this exceptional actor.

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Born in Nottingham, England, Bella Ramsey showed an early interest in acting. She began attending Stagecoach Theatre Arts, a performing arts school, at the age of four. This early exposure to the world of performance laid the foundation for her future success. Ramsey's passion for acting was evident from a young age, and she quickly developed a natural talent for embodying different characters.

First Steps in Acting

Before landing her breakout role in Game of Thrones, Bella Ramsey appeared in minor roles in television series. These early experiences, though small, provided invaluable on-set experience and helped her hone her skills. While information on these exact early roles is limited, they were crucial in her development as an actor, offering her a glimpse into the professional world of television production.

Breakthrough Role: Lyanna Mormont in Game of Thrones

Bella Ramsey's career took off with her portrayal of Lyanna Mormont in HBO's epic fantasy series, Game of Thrones. She first appeared in Season 6, Episode 7, "The Broken Man," and immediately made a lasting impression on viewers.

The Fierce Lady of Bear Island

Lyanna Mormont, the young and fiercely independent head of House Mormont, quickly became a fan favorite. Ramsey's portrayal of the character was lauded for its strength, intelligence, and unwavering loyalty. Despite her young age, Lyanna commanded respect and wielded considerable influence. Her memorable lines and unwavering commitment to the Starks resonated with audiences worldwide.

Ramsey brought a maturity and gravitas to the role that belied her age. Her scenes were often highlights of each episode she appeared in, and her character's unwavering moral compass made her a symbol of hope in the often-dark world of Westeros.

Lyanna's Impact on the Series

Lyanna Mormont's impact on Game of Thrones extended beyond her individual scenes. She represented the strength and resilience of the North and played a crucial role in key battles, including the Battle of the Bastards and the Battle of Winterfell. Her unwavering support for Jon Snow and Daenerys Targaryen solidified her position as a vital ally in the fight against the White Walkers.

Her death during the Battle of Winterfell, while tragic, was a heroic sacrifice that underscored her bravery and commitment to her people. Lyanna Mormont's legacy as a fierce and honorable leader continues to be celebrated by fans of the series.

Transitioning to The Last of Us: A New Chapter

Following her success in Game of Thrones, Bella Ramsey took on a variety of roles in film and television. However, it was her casting as Ellie in HBO's adaptation of the critically acclaimed video game The Last of Us that marked a significant turning point in her career.

Becoming Ellie: A Challenging Role

The role of Ellie, a 14-year-old survivor in a post-apocalyptic world ravaged by a fungal infection, presented a unique set of challenges for Ramsey. The character is complex, resilient, and emotionally scarred by the events she has witnessed. Capturing the essence of Ellie required Ramsey to delve deep into the character's psyche and portray a wide range of emotions.

Furthermore, the role demanded physical and emotional endurance. Ramsey underwent extensive training to prepare for the action-packed scenes and spent considerable time working with the show's creators to understand Ellie's backstory and motivations.

The Last of Us: Critical Acclaim and Global Recognition

The Last of Us premiered in January 2023 to widespread critical acclaim. Ramsey's performance as Ellie was particularly praised, with many critics noting her ability to capture the character's vulnerability, strength, and humor. Her chemistry with co-star Pedro Pascal, who played Joel, was also a highlight of the series.

The series became a global phenomenon, breaking viewership records for HBO and garnering numerous awards and nominations. Ramsey's portrayal of Ellie solidified her status as one of the most talented young actors working today.

Differences and Similarities to the Game Ellie

Bella Ramsey faced a unique challenge in adapting a beloved video game character for television. While staying true to the essence of Ellie, she also brought her own interpretation to the role, adding nuances and complexities that resonated with both fans of the game and newcomers to the story.

  • Physical Appearance: One of the initial points of discussion was Ramsey's physical appearance compared to the game Ellie. However, Ramsey's performance quickly overshadowed any initial reservations, proving that her acting ability was far more important than physical resemblance.
  • Emotional Depth: Ramsey brought a unique emotional depth to the character, exploring Ellie's trauma and resilience in a way that resonated with audiences. She captured the character's vulnerability and strength, creating a nuanced and compelling portrayal.
  • Humor and Sarcasm: Ramsey perfectly captured Ellie's signature humor and sarcasm, providing moments of levity amidst the bleakness of the post-apocalyptic world.

Beyond Westeros and the Apocalypse: Other Notable Roles

While Bella Ramsey is best known for her roles in Game of Thrones and The Last of Us, she has also appeared in a variety of other projects, showcasing her versatility as an actor.

Hilda: A Voice Acting Triumph

Ramsey voiced the titular character in the animated series Hilda, based on the graphic novels by Luke Pearson. Hilda is a fearless and adventurous young girl who explores the magical wilderness surrounding her home. Ramsey's voice acting brought Hilda to life, capturing her curiosity, courage, and unwavering optimism. The series has been praised for its beautiful animation, engaging storylines, and positive messages.

Judy: A Touching Performance

In the biopic Judy, starring Renée Zellweger as Judy Garland, Bella Ramsey played Lorna Luft, Judy's daughter. While a smaller role, Ramsey's portrayal of Lorna was both touching and nuanced, showcasing her ability to convey complex emotions with subtlety. Her scenes with Zellweger were particularly impactful, highlighting the complicated relationship between mother and daughter.

Becoming Elizabeth: A Royal Appearance

Ramsey played Lady Jane Grey in the historical drama series Becoming Elizabeth, which explores the early life of Queen Elizabeth I. Her portrayal of Lady Jane Grey, a young woman caught in the turbulent political landscape of Tudor England, was both compelling and tragic. Ramsey captured the character's intelligence, piety, and vulnerability, making her a memorable presence in the series.

Awards and Recognition

Bella Ramsey's talent has been widely recognized by critics and audiences alike. She has received numerous awards and nominations for her performances, solidifying her status as one of the most promising young actors in the industry.

Notable Awards and Nominations

  • MTV Movie & TV Awards: Nominated for Best Breakthrough Performance for The Last of Us (2023).
  • Critics' Choice Television Awards: Nominated for Best Young Actor/Actress for The Last of Us (2023).
  • Saturn Awards: Won Best Performance by a Younger Actor in a Television Series for The Last of Us (2024).
  • Primetime Emmy Awards: Nominated for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series for The Last of Us (2024).

These awards and nominations are a testament to Ramsey's talent, hard work, and dedication to her craft. They also reflect the impact she has made on audiences worldwide.

Impact and Influence

Bella Ramsey's influence extends beyond her acting roles. She is a vocal advocate for various social causes and uses her platform to raise awareness about issues she cares deeply about.

Advocacy and Activism

Ramsey has been outspoken about issues such as mental health, climate change, and LGBTQ+ rights. She uses her social media platforms to share information, raise awareness, and encourage others to get involved. Her advocacy work has inspired many young people to take action and make a difference in their communities.

Representation and Inclusivity

As a non-binary actor, Ramsey has also been a strong advocate for representation and inclusivity in the entertainment industry. She has spoken openly about her experiences and the importance of creating opportunities for actors from diverse backgrounds. Her visibility has helped to break down barriers and challenge traditional notions of gender and identity.

Future Projects and Career Trajectory

With her talent, versatility, and dedication, Bella Ramsey has a bright future ahead of her. She is currently working on several exciting projects that will further showcase her abilities and solidify her position as a leading actor in the industry.

Upcoming Roles and Projects

While specific details about her upcoming projects are often kept under wraps, Ramsey has expressed interest in exploring a variety of genres and roles. She is drawn to characters that are complex, challenging, and emotionally resonant. Her fans eagerly anticipate her future performances and the impact she will continue to make on the entertainment world.

Continued Growth and Development

Bella Ramsey's career is a testament to her talent, hard work, and unwavering commitment to her craft. She has consistently impressed audiences with her powerful performances and her ability to embody a wide range of characters. As she continues to grow and develop as an actor, she is sure to make an even greater impact on the entertainment world.

The Enduring Appeal of Bella Ramsey

Bella Ramsey's appeal lies in her authenticity, vulnerability, and undeniable talent. She connects with audiences on a deep emotional level, drawing them into her characters' stories and making them feel invested in their journeys. Her ability to convey complex emotions with subtlety and nuance is a rare gift that sets her apart from other actors.

A Role Model for Young Actors

Bella Ramsey serves as a role model for young actors around the world. Her success is a testament to the power of hard work, dedication, and believing in oneself. She inspires others to pursue their dreams and to never give up, no matter the challenges they may face.

Leaving a Lasting Legacy

Bella Ramsey's contributions to the entertainment world are already significant, and her legacy is sure to grow even stronger in the years to come. She is a talented actor, a passionate advocate, and an inspiration to many. Her performances will continue to resonate with audiences for generations to come, solidifying her place as one of the most important actors of her generation.

Conclusion

From her breakout role as Lyanna Mormont in Game of Thrones to her critically acclaimed performance as Ellie in The Last of Us, Bella Ramsey has consistently proven her talent and versatility as an actor. Her journey is a testament to her hard work, dedication, and unwavering commitment to her craft. As she continues to take on new and challenging roles, she is sure to make an even greater impact on the entertainment world and inspire audiences around the world.

Bella Ramsey's story is one of remarkable talent, resilience, and authenticity. She is a true rising star, and her future is undoubtedly bright. We eagerly anticipate her future performances and the many contributions she will continue to make to the world of entertainment.