The Last of Us is a video game adaptation that has taken the world by storm, with its post-apocalyptic storyline and gripping action sequences. However, what truly sets this show apart is its representation of queer romance and love, especially with the character of Ellie, who is portrayed as a lesbian by Bella Ramsey, a nonbinary actor who is also known for her role in Game of Thrones.
While the show has been widely appreciated for its depiction of queer characters, there are some fans who have expressed their dislike for these storylines. But Bella Ramsey has a message for them: she doesn’t care.
In a recent interview with British GQ, Bella Ramsey made it clear that she is proud of the work she has done on the show, and is not bothered by the negative comments from a small section of the audience. She said, “I know people will think what they want to think.
But they’re gonna have to get used to it. If you don’t want to watch the show because it has gay storylines, because it has a trans character (referring to Lev, a character from the game who will later show up in the series) that’s on you, and you’re missing out.”
This attitude is refreshing, and a much-needed reminder that representation matters. In an industry that has historically been dominated by white, cisgender, heterosexual men, it is important to have characters that reflect the diversity of the real world.
And it’s not just about having diverse characters, but also about treating them with respect and giving them storylines that are just as important as those of their straight, cisgender counterparts.
The Last of Us is not the first show to feature queer characters, but it is one of the few that has done so in a way that is not tokenistic or superficial. Ellie’s sexuality is not the only defining feature of her character, and she is not reduced to a stereotype.
Instead, she is a complex, multifaceted character who happens to be gay, and that is what makes her so compelling. It is also worth noting that the show has received widespread critical acclaim, with many reviewers praising its handling of queer characters and storylines.
This is a testament to the fact that good representation is not just a matter of ticking boxes, but of telling compelling stories that resonate with audiences.
Of course, there will always be those who are resistant to change, who see any attempt at diversity as an attack on their way of life. But as Bella Ramsey pointed out, they are missing out.
By refusing to engage with queer storylines, they are denying themselves the opportunity to see the world from a different perspective, to empathize with characters who may have had very different experiences from their own.
And in doing so, they are limiting their own growth and understanding. In conclusion, Bella Ramsey‘s attitude towards the haters of The Last of Us’ queer storylines is admirable.
It’s important to remember that representation matters, and that good representation is not just a matter of ticking boxes, but of telling compelling stories that resonate with audiences.
The Last of Us is a shining example of how to do this right, and those who refuse to engage with its queer characters and storylines are only limiting themselves. As Ramsey said, “they’re gonna have to get used to it.”
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