At just 21 years old, The Last of Us star Bella Ramsey has already lived through the intense spotlight that comes with international fame, fan adoration, and deeply personal revelations. But now, after more than a year of public conversations around their gender identity, the Emmy-nominated actor is offering new reflections—looking back with honesty, vulnerability, and a sense of clarity.
In a candid new interview with The Guardian, Ramsey opened up about their journey of coming out as non-binary, revealing that while it brought personal liberation, it also came with unexpected consequences and moments of discomfort.
🧠 “I Wish I Didn’t Come Out the Way I Did”
In January 2023, during the media whirlwind surrounding the release of HBO’s The Last of Us, Ramsey publicly shared that they identify as genderfluid, expressing at the time that they “always felt a little bit not quite in the body they were meant to be in.” While their intention was to speak honestly and authentically, the response—especially online—was overwhelming.
Now, more than a year later, Ramsey admits the experience left them with mixed emotions.
“I wish I didn’t come out the way I did,” they told The Guardian. “I didn’t want it to become a headline, but I wasn’t prepared for that. Still, some people have told me it was helpful for them.”
It was a vulnerable admission—one that speaks to the complicated relationship many young public figures face when their personal identities are discussed on a global stage.
💻 Learning to Navigate the Internet’s Darker Corners
Ramsey’s rise to global fame, especially following the explosive success of The Last of Us, coincided with their coming out—and, unfortunately, also with the internet’s often harsh commentary.
The backlash, misinformation, and scrutiny that followed were an unexpected emotional weight. Like many young actors of their generation, Ramsey discovered just how quickly personal truths can become viral flashpoints.
This digital pressure led them to take a step that might seem radical in the influencer age: they deleted Instagram.
“I created the account because of impersonators,” Ramsey explained. “But after a while, I realized I didn’t need it. I want to live more quietly.”
They cited inspiration from fellow actors like Jesse Eisenberg and Kit Harington, who have famously chosen to stay off social media. “I admire that,” they said, explaining how stepping away from the constant spotlight has helped them refocus on the things that truly matter.
🌈 “I Don’t Want My Gender and Sexuality to Be the Focus Anymore”
While Ramsey is proud of who they are, they now hope that their identity will no longer be the center of every conversation.
“I’m chill with it now,” they said with a smile. “And I want others to be too.”
The shift in tone isn’t about retreating or regret—it’s about moving forward. Ramsey emphasized that coming out wasn’t a mistake, but they’re now in a place where their identity no longer needs to define them publicly. They want to be seen first and foremost as a person, an actor, and a storyteller—not just a headline about gender.
🎬 A Bright Future Ahead
Despite the challenges, Ramsey continues to shine as one of the brightest young talents in the industry. Their performances have been praised for emotional depth, bravery, and vulnerability—qualities that mirror the way they’ve handled their real-life journey, too.
As they look toward the future, Ramsey seems ready to embrace a new chapter—one with fewer headlines, less noise, and more focus on their work, passions, and peace of mind.
💬 Final Thoughts
Bella Ramsey’s story is a reminder that even in a world dominated by constant sharing, privacy is powerful, and authenticity doesn’t always need an audience. Their openness has helped many feel seen—but now, they’re choosing to live more quietly, on their own terms.
In a world where it’s easy to get lost in the spotlight, that choice may be the bravest act of all.
