Bella Ramsey Shares Emotional Truth After Coming Out as Non-Binary
At just 21 years old, Bella Ramsey has captured hearts worldwide—from their fierce debut as Lyanna Mormont in Game of Thrones to their powerful lead as Ellie in HBO’s The Last of Us. Their talent has cemented them as a rising star, earning widespread acclaim for breathing life into one of gaming’s most iconic characters.
But behind the spotlight, Ramsey is now opening up about a deeply personal struggle.
Since coming out as non-binary, the actor admits that navigating fame while embracing their authentic self has been anything but easy. While the public recognition has soared, so too has the pressure and scrutiny surrounding their gender identity.
In a candid and courageous revelation, Ramsey shares the emotional toll of being thrust into the center of a conversation they’re still learning to navigate—reminding fans that even the bravest faces on screen are still human behind the scenes.
In a recent interview with The Observer, Bella Ramsey opened up about the emotional aftermath of publicly coming out as non-binary in 2021.
At the time, they told The New York Times, “Being gendered isn’t something I particularly like,” revealing that they identify as genderfluid and use they/them pronouns. But now, looking back on the decision to speak out, Ramsey admits the experience came with unexpected weight.
“Part of me looks back and I wish that I didn’t,” they confessed. “I didn’t want it to become a headline and a big thing. Obviously it was going to—but I didn’t really understand that at the time.”
The rising star, who has captivated audiences with their performances, especially as Ellie in The Last of Us, said they weren’t prepared for the overwhelming public reaction. The attention, though often well-meaning, came with pressures they hadn’t fully anticipated.
Yet despite the challenges, Ramsey acknowledged that their honesty has resonated with others. “People have said to me that it’s been very helpful for them seeing some representation,” they shared, highlighting the quiet power of visibility in a world where so many are still searching for their voice.
Despite the emotional turbulence, Bella Ramsey says coming out has ultimately brought them a sense of liberation.
“It’s been a mixed bag,” they admitted, “but overall, I think it was a good thing—just for me, living more freely, without feeling like I’m keeping a secret.”
In a candid conversation with Wired, Ramsey reflected on their current approach to pronouns, embracing a sense of fluidity that mirrors their identity.
“[My pronouns] are whatever you fancy, really. A lot of people call me they, some people call me she, and occasionally I get a he.
I’m sort of whatever. I’m pretty chill about it all for now. Maybe that’ll change, but for now…”
But navigating that personal evolution under the public eye hasn’t been simple. Speaking to Vogue, Ramsey acknowledged that fame complicates what should be a private journey.
“As much as I would try and keep it private, if someone recognizes me on the street… and takes a photo, then that is just talked about.”
They also addressed the unspoken pressure placed on public figures to have all the answers.
“Part of the job of being an actor is that you’re supposed to have an answer to every question that people ask you,” they said.
“But actually, the answer can be, ‘I don’t know, and I’m not ready to talk about that.’”
Through it all, Ramsey’s honesty has resonated far beyond Hollywood. By sharing their story—imperfect, evolving, and real—they’ve given voice to countless others still finding the courage to be themselves.