Bella Ramsey Fires Back at Season 2 Critics of ‘The Last of Us’:”You Don’t Have To Watch it”
Bella Ramsey is speaking out about the criticism surrounding The Last of Us season 2. The HBO Max show, based on the hit video game, was widely praised when it premiered in 2023. Both critics and audiences loved it. But things changed with the second season.
Season 2 received a lot of backlash, not just for some story choices, but also for Ramsey’s portrayal of Ellie.
Some fans were unhappy with changes to the character and how the story differed from the game. Others criticized Ramsey herself, despite the actor making history as the first nonbinary actor to receive multiple Emmy nominations.
In a new interview for Entertainment Weekly’s Awardist podcast, Ramsey addressed the criticism. “I tried to steer clear as much as I could, to be honest, because there’s nothing that I can do about it anyway,” she said.
“I mean, the show is out. There’s nothing that can be changed or altered. So I’m like, there’s not really any point in reading or looking at anything. People are, of course, entitled to their opinions, but it doesn’t affect the show. It doesn’t affect how the show continues or anything in any way…. They’re very separate things to me.”
She also sent a clear message to critics. “You don’t have to watch it if you hate it that much. The game exists. Like, you can just play the game again. You don’t have to watch it, but if you do wanna watch it, then I hope you enjoy it.”
Season 2 brought back most of the cast from the first season and added new characters. It explored the consequences of Joel’s actions from season 1, including the aftermath of his fight with the Fireflies. The season also introduced Abby, the daughter of a surgeon Joel killed during that conflict.
Ramsey explained why some moments were different from the video game. For instance, Ellie’s excitement over becoming a parent to Dina’s baby wasn’t planned in the game. “Stuff like that, I think Craig just threw in,” she said, referring to showrunner Craig Mazin.
“In the dynamic of her and Dina, she definitely sees herself as more of, I guess, stereotypically the guy, I suppose. And so the idea that she would be the dad was just a funny one that was in there. But, yeah, I think there’s those specific deviations from the game sometimes. They’re really thought about and really detailed, and sometimes it’s just for the fun of it.”
Even with the criticism, Ramsey stays focused on her role and the story. She clearly separates fans’ opinions from the work itself, showing confidence in both the series and her portrayal of Ellie.
Ramsey’s response shows professionalism and self-assurance. Season 2 may have sparked debate, but the show continues to push boundaries and explore bold storytelling choices. Do you agree with Ramsey’s approach to the criticism? Share your thoughts in the comments.