Bella Ramsey’s Candid Take on the ‘Disgusting’ Struggles of Being a 20-Something Star in a Fame-Obsessed, Gender-Fluid World

In a candid and thought-provoking moment, Bella Ramsey, the breakout star of HBO’s The Last of Us, has stirred the cultural pot with a striking comment about the challenges of navigating their 20s. In a recent interview, Ramsey declared, “Being in your 20s is disgusting because this generation will have the pressure of fame and the challenge of choosing their pronouns to be gender fluid.” The statement, raw and unfiltered, has ignited a firestorm of reactions, from fervent support to heated debate, positioning Ramsey as a voice for a generation grappling with unprecedented social and personal pressures. As fans and critics dissect their words, the remark has become a lightning rod for discussions about fame, identity, and the evolving landscape of youth in the 2020s.

At just 21, Bella Ramsey has already carved out a remarkable career, rising to global prominence with their role as Ellie in The Last of Us, HBO’s critically acclaimed adaptation of Naughty Dog’s post-apocalyptic video game. Their performance, marked by raw intensity and emotional depth, earned widespread praise, making them a household name and a symbol of Gen Z’s burgeoning influence in Hollywood. Prior to The Last of Us, Ramsey gained attention for their role as Lyanna Mormont in Game of Thrones, showcasing a commanding presence despite their young age. Yet, with fame has come intense scrutiny, from online trolling about their appearance to debates over their casting, highlighting the double-edged sword of stardom in the digital age.

Ramsey’s interview comment reflects a deeply personal perspective on the unique challenges facing their generation. The phrase “being in your 20s is disgusting” captures a visceral frustration, one that resonates with many young people navigating a world of heightened expectations and rapid cultural shifts. The pressures of fame, as Ramsey noted, are particularly acute for those in the public eye. Unlike previous generations, today’s stars face constant exposure through social media platforms like X, where every action, word, or outfit is dissected by millions. For Ramsey, who entered the spotlight as a teenager, this scrutiny has been a constant companion, shaping their experience of young adulthood in profound ways.

The second part of Ramsey’s statement—about the “challenge of choosing their pronouns to be gender fluid”—touches on a deeply personal and culturally charged topic. Ramsey, who identifies as non-binary and uses they/them pronouns, has been open about their gender identity, advocating for greater acceptance of fluidity in how people express themselves. Their comment suggests that this process, while empowering for some, can also be daunting, particularly in a society where gender norms are rapidly evolving. For Gen Z, the expectation to publicly define one’s identity, whether through pronouns or other markers, can feel like an added layer of pressure, especially when amplified by fame’s spotlight. Ramsey’s use of “disgusting” conveys the messiness of this experience, blending personal struggle with broader societal tension.

Web searches reveal that Ramsey’s remarks align with broader trends among young people in the 2020s. Studies indicate that Gen Z is more likely than previous generations to embrace fluid gender identities, with a significant percentage identifying as non-binary or genderqueer. This shift has sparked both progress and pushback, with debates about pronouns and gender expression becoming flashpoints in cultural and political spheres. For public figures like Ramsey, navigating these discussions is particularly fraught, as their choices are subject to intense scrutiny. The pressure to “get it right”—whether in articulating their identity or responding to critics—can be overwhelming, especially when coupled with the demands of a high-profile career.

The reaction to Ramsey’s statement has been predictably polarized. On one hand, many fans, particularly younger audiences and those in the LGBTQ+ community, have praised Ramsey for their honesty and vulnerability. Social media platforms have seen an outpouring of support, with fans sharing stories of their own struggles with identity and fame’s pressures. Hashtags celebrating Ramsey’s authenticity have trended, and fan communities have rallied to defend their right to speak openly about their experiences. For these supporters, Ramsey’s words are a powerful acknowledgment of the complexities of growing up in a hyper-connected, identity-conscious world, where personal and public selves are constantly in tension.

On the other hand, critics have seized on Ramsey’s statement as evidence of entitlement or oversensitivity, arguing that the challenges they describe are self-imposed or exaggerated. Some detractors have mocked the focus on pronouns, framing it as a trivial concern compared to more pressing global issues. Others have questioned Ramsey’s characterization of fame, pointing out that their success in The Last of Us is a privilege many aspire to. These criticisms, often amplified on platforms like X, reflect a broader cultural divide, where discussions of gender and mental health can become battlegrounds for competing worldviews. Ramsey’s comment, intentionally or not, has tapped into this divide, making them a focal point for both admiration and ire.

The The Last of Us context adds another layer to the story. The series itself has been a lightning rod for cultural debates, from casting controversies to its handling of complex themes like trauma and identity. Ramsey’s role as Ellie, a character who resonates deeply with fans for her strength and vulnerability, has placed them at the heart of these discussions. Their openness about their non-binary identity has also drawn parallels to Ellie’s own journey, which, in The Last of Us Part II, explores themes of self-discovery and societal acceptance. For some fans, Ramsey’s personal experiences enhance their portrayal, adding authenticity to a character navigating a world of uncertainty.

HBO, as the studio behind The Last of Us, faces a delicate situation. Ramsey’s statement, while personal, has brought renewed attention to the series, but it also risks alienating viewers who disagree with their views. The network has a history of supporting its talent, and it’s likely providing Ramsey with resources to navigate the fallout, particularly given their youth and the intensity of the public reaction. The upcoming third season, already slated for a script overhaul to address Season 2’s mixed reception, will place additional pressure on Ramsey to deliver a performance that transcends the noise surrounding their personal life.

The broader implications of Ramsey’s comment extend to the intersection of fame, identity, and mental health. The entertainment industry is increasingly reckoning with the toll of public scrutiny on young stars, with figures like Billie Eilish and Zendaya speaking out about similar pressures. Ramsey’s willingness to articulate their struggles could inspire others to do the same, fostering a more open dialogue about the challenges of navigating fame in the 2020s. It also highlights the need for better support systems, both within the industry and on social media platforms, to protect young talent from the relentless demands of public life.

As Ramsey continues their career, their statement will likely remain a defining moment, showcasing both their courage and their vulnerability. It’s a reminder that behind the glamour of Hollywood lies a human being grappling with the same uncertainties as their peers, albeit on a global stage. For fans, the incident is an opportunity to reflect on how they engage with the stars they admire, prioritizing empathy over judgment. For the industry, it’s a call to address the systemic pressures that can make being in your 20s, as Ramsey put it, “disgusting.”

Bella Ramsey’s raw confession about the struggles of their generation has sparked a conversation that transcends The Last of Us, touching on universal themes of identity, pressure, and resilience. As they navigate the complexities of fame and self-expression, their voice remains a powerful force, challenging norms and inspiring others to embrace their truth. The world is watching, and Ramsey’s journey is far from over.