Bella Ramsey: From Game of Thrones' Fierce Lyanna to The Last of Us' Ellie
Before captivating audiences as Ellie in HBO's "The Last of Us," Bella Ramsey had already proven their acting prowess in a memorable role on "Game of Thrones." Ramsey's portrayal of Lyanna Mormont, the young and formidable Lady of Bear Island, resonated deeply with viewers, establishing them as a force to be reckoned with.
The casting of Ellie in "The Last of Us" was a significant undertaking. The actor needed to embody the character's strength, vulnerability, and sharp wit, all qualities present in the original video game. While finding a young actor capable of such emotional depth can be challenging, Bella Ramsey's previous work on "Game of Thrones" demonstrated their exceptional talent.
Lyanna Mormont: A Fan Favorite
Ramsey's depiction of Lyanna Mormont quickly became a fan favorite within George R.R. Martin's world, even as "Game of Thrones" itself faced mixed reviews in its later seasons. The show boasted one of the most impressive ensembles in television history, with a constant influx of new characters driven by the complex narrative.
Even for those familiar with the source novels, keeping track of the various alliances, histories, and motivations could be confusing. Amidst the constant twists and turns, Ramsey's inspiring and articulate portrayal of Lyanna stood out, earning them a place among the most admired characters in Westeros.
The Lady of Bear Island
Lyanna Mormont is the head of House Mormont and the Lady of Bear Island, a position she inherited after her mother, Maege, died during the War of the Five Kings. Ramsey's character first appears in Season 6, where she informs Jon Snow and Sansa Stark that she refused to pledge allegiance to Stannis Baratheon, declaring that House Mormont serves only the "King of the North," a title once held by Robb Stark.
Despite initial political complexities, Lyanna pledges House Mormont to Jon's army as he prepares to confront Ramsay Bolton, who has seized control of Winterfell. Following the battle, Lyanna is among the first Northern leaders to proclaim Jon as "The King of the North" in a powerful moment at the end of Season 6.
Lyanna's decisions are often based on logic and a dedication to the North, a contrast to other characters who are driven by emotion. She understands that pledging allegiance to a foreign ruler seeking the Iron Throne would threaten the North's long-standing independence.
Unlike Stannis, who showed little concern for the Northern territories, Jon aimed to unite the region where he grew up. Lyanna recognized the importance of sacrifice for the greater good of her community, but also understood the value of honor and avoiding unnecessary bloodshed.
A Steadfast Advisor
Lyanna's straightforward advice to Jon and Sansa, who were often overwhelmed by the intricate political landscape, made her one of the most compelling characters on "Game of Thrones." Despite the suffering endured by House Mormont, Lyanna presented a resilient and strong front, bolstering the civic pride of her people. Ramsey also effectively conveyed Lyanna's underlying vulnerability, particularly in a poignant moment with Jon, who was still grieving the death of Ned Stark.
Lyanna offered Jon crucial guidance during the final seasons, cautioning him about the potential dangers that Daenerys Targaryen posed to their alliance. While some Northern lords harbored prejudice against Daenerys, Lyanna recognized that an alliance with her could compromise the North's independence, the very cause for which their men had already sacrificed so much.
Jon's reluctance to rule as King was seen by Lyanna as a strength, as it made him less susceptible to the corrupting influences of power. Although the eighth season of "Game of Thrones," particularly "The Long Night," was widely criticized, Lyanna's sacrifice stood out as one of the most impactful moments. Her unwavering loyalty to her people made her presence on the battlefield inevitable.
Even though the final season often prioritized action over character development, the brief connection between Lyanna and her cousin, Jorah, served as a poignant reminder of the importance of family ties. Ramsey's ability to deliver lengthy lines of dialogue in a memorable way perfectly captured the essence of "Game of Thrones." The show's brilliance lay in its ability to create a world that felt real and expansive, and Ramsey effectively portrayed Lyanna's role in one of its most significant events.
While Ellie has become a beloved character in HBO history, Ramsey's performance as Lyanna paved the way for their success in "The Last of Us," demonstrating their ability to portray defiant and compelling protagonists.