At just 21, British actor Bella Ramsey finds themselves at the center of a storm that seems to engulf every outspoken young talent in Hollywood. Much like Jennifer Lawrence and Rachel Zegler before them, Bella is learning the cost of being young, vocal, and different in an industry—and on an internet—that often resists change.
Ramsey, who returns as Ellie in HBO’s The Last of Us Season 2, has become a frequent target of vitriol online. Despite portraying both a 14-year-old and a 19-year-old version of Ellie with notable emotional depth, critics—especially from Reddit communities—have focused less on their performance and more on their appearance, gender identity, and neurodivergence.
A Double Standard in Fandom
Much of the backlash stems from fans of the original PlayStation game who argue Bella doesn’t physically resemble Ellie. Ironically, these same critics have been far more lenient with Pedro Pascal, whose character Joel also deviates from the game’s visuals. For some, it’s hard to ignore the double standard—especially when criticism veers into outright abuse.
Reddit threads have devolved into toxic commentary about Bella’s facial features, acting choices, and even identity, with deliberate misgendering and accusations of being an “industry plant” thrown around. As a non-binary autistic actor, Bella has become a flashpoint for discussions about representation—and intolerance—in modern media.
Misogyny, Homophobia, and Mockery
Some of the most disturbing content online includes photoshopped memes ridiculing Bella’s looks and mocking their identity. One infamous scene in Season 2, where Ellie quips “I’m gonna be a dad,” has been warped into a punchline in hateful memes that strip the moment of its context and meaning.
Online, this has led to a flood of misogynistic and homophobic comments. Subreddits that once celebrated the game’s legacy now often serve as echo chambers for those determined to tear down anyone who doesn’t fit their rigid expectations of a character.
Fans Push Back: “Bella Ramsey Deserves Better”
Fortunately, Bella’s supporters are not staying silent. Across social media, fans are calling out the cruelty and celebrating the actor’s talent. “Bella Ramsey appreciation tweet because some of you are fing a***s,” reads one popular post on X (formerly Twitter). Others cite specific scenes to prove Ramsey’s emotional range and dedication to the role.
Many fans have also shared their own images of Bella, countering the ugliness with admiration. “Propaganda I’m not falling for: Bella Ramsey being considered ugly,” wrote one user, posting flattering photos of the actor.
Another fan tweeted: “Imagine hating on Bella Ramsey and Pedro Pascal just for existing. Couldn’t be me.”
Bella Knew What Was Coming
Interestingly, Bella appears to have anticipated this wave of negativity. Speaking to The Hollywood Reporter in April, they revealed they had deleted all social media accounts before the show aired. “It wasn’t this big, dramatic thing,” they explained, “but I was definitely thinking about season two. If I just avoid Twitter and Reddit, which I’m now doing, then everything’s totally fine.”
By stepping away from toxic platforms, Bella has taken control of their mental space—an increasingly necessary move for actors in the social media age.
