Movies

Femininity Doesn’t Serve My Purpose, Despite Non-Binary Regrets

BBG News

Bella Ramsey has shared that they don’t feel they can fully connect with femininity, even though earlier they had expressed remorse about identifying as non-binary.

2023 saw the young actor from “The Last of Us,” aged 21 at the time, openly identify as genderfluid and request to be referred using they/them pronouns. They expressed that being labeled by a specific gender is not something they find appealing, stating ‘I don’t particularly enjoy being gendered.’

On The Louis Theroux Podcast, Bella expressed that the concept of femininity doesn’t align with their personal identity or goals, contributing in part to their decision to identify as non-binary.

Bella shared her reason for identifying as genderfluid, stating: “It wasn’t until the first season of ‘The Last of Us’ that I truly gave much thought to personal pronouns.

Initially, I was faced with a dilemma: deciding which pronoun others should use when referring to me. This choice left me feeling overwhelmed as I wasn’t certain about my preference, nor did it matter much to me at the time. However, the situation itself felt quite stressful nonetheless.

In the latest season of The Last of Us, there was a query about how I should be addressed on set.

I recently expressed, ‘Feel free to address me as you perceive me.’ I’ve come to realize that even when I hop into a taxi, the driver will likely refer to me as ‘she.’

That’s just how our brains work, and I can relate to it. To be honest, I’ve always been quite flexible when using ‘they/them,’ as it doesn’t seem like a big deal for me.

Moreover, I’m fully content with my identity. While I understand its significance for others, it’s currently less of a focus for me personally.

Bella shared with Louis that she’s never truly identified as a woman, and lately, she’s been exploring the concept of femininity.

They mentioned that they have been deeply investigating this topic lately, considering various perspectives by conducting extensive research on both sides.

I’ve been observing several researchers who are skeptical about gender and some individuals who claim that being transgender isn’t real.

Additionally, I’ve been on my own path, exploring and perhaps figuring out its true nature. There have been moments when I question, “What exactly constitutes the neurology and psychology behind identifying as non-binary?

As a devoted admirer, I’ve steered clear of that particular term for years, not wanting it to become a passing fad. Its significance has always been apparent to me, ever since my youth.

Instead of labeling myself as a tomboy, I’d describe myself more as someone who straddled both feminine and masculine traits, leaning more towards the masculine. Growing up, I tended to exhibit behaviors and interests that were traditionally associated with boys rather than girls.

I’ve generally identified as more masculine, leaning towards one end of the spectrum. Currently, I don’t find myself connecting with my feminine side as much.

In my daily life, I strive not to be seen as a woman, and the concept of me expressing or experimenting with femininity seems irrelevant to my goals at this time.

I believe you understand my sentiment. At times, I find myself feeling somewhat melancholic regarding that matter, yet I also view it as a path for growth.

In response to Louis mentioning they were sad about it, Bella expressed her feelings by saying, “It’s similar to appreciating the concept of femininity as something beautiful, yet currently not having a connection to it myself.

However, he conforms to a traditionally male image, yet there are many men who exhibit more feminine traits, much like Harry Styles occasionally donning a dress.

It seems to me that it embodies a blend of femininity and masculinity. However, I must admit that at times, it feels like these terms have lost their meaning.

Last month, during an interview, Bella expressed that they feel a part of themselves regretted their decision to identify as non-binary, following the response to this revelation.

After two years since the announcement, Bella admitted they’ve been torn about disclosing their identity, acknowledging that the response has been a mix of both positive and negative reactions.

In conversation with The Observer, Bella admitted, ‘There’s a part of me that regrets looking back, as I never intended for it to gain attention and turn into a significant issue.’

Initially, I hadn’t fully grasped or anticipated what was about to happen. I wasn’t ready for it either. However, later on, many have told me that it proved beneficial for them as they found a relatable portrayal in it.

In essence, there have been ups and downs, but considering the enhanced freedom I’ve experienced, not having to hide aspects of myself anymore, I would say it has been beneficial overall.

Bella emphasized that even though they’re comfortable discussing their gender identity, they prefer it not to be the main topic of conversation. Instead, they simply ask for a relaxed and casual approach from everyone regarding this matter.

The British actor, known for playing Lyanna Mormont in Game of Thrones, expressed enthusiasm to The New York Times upon being addressed with male pronouns.

She mentioned: “I’ve often found my gender identity to be quite flexible. I don’t give it much thought when people refer to me using female pronouns like ‘she’ or ‘her’, but when someone uses ‘he’ or ‘him’, it adds a certain thrill.

If a form provides an option for ‘non-binary,’ the star mentioned that she identifies with this term. However, she emphasized that she sees herself as simply a person.

I don’t have a strong preference for being identified by a specific gender, but as far as pronouns go, it doesn’t matter much to me.

Last month, Bella confessed that it has been challenging for them to continue navigating their gender identity, as they lack the luxury of privately investigating this aspect of themselves.

Actors are expected to provide answers for all questions they’re asked, but it’s perfectly fine if they respond honestly by saying, “I’m not sure and I’d prefer not to discuss that topic right now.

Bella added: ‘If I ever felt the need to delve deeper into aspects of my gender, I’d do so openly.’

If someone were to snap a picture of me in public, especially if my appearance has changed, there’s a good chance the image might spark conversation.

Bella typically donned a chest binder 90% of the time while shooting The Last of Us, a series set amidst a worldwide pandemic where those infected have mutated into grotesque, creature-like beings.

In another part of this conversation, it was disclosed that Bella received an autism diagnosis during the initial season of the HBO show, which ran from June 2021 to July 2022.

Before now, they had discussed their neurodivergence, yet for some unknown reasons chose not to reveal their formal diagnosis earlier.

In the role of Ellie in the post-apocalyptic drama, Bella shared that she received an autism diagnosis during the filming of The Last of Us’ first season.

Autism is a long-term condition, originating during development, which influences how individuals experience and respond to their surroundings as well as their social interactions.

They shared with the publication: ‘It was liberating for me. It allows me to move through life with greater compassion towards myself, knowing I can’t perform simple daily tasks that others appear to manage effortlessly.’

For me, the term ‘autistic’ has been incredibly enlightening as it’s allowed me to better understand myself. However, when it comes to my gender identity and sexuality, I don’t find labels comforting at all. They seem to confine me, making me feel like I’m being boxed in, and I end up feeling constrained.

Additionally, Bella opened up about her own gender identity in conversations with her fellow actor Pedro Pascal, who has a transgender sister named Lux.

They noted that their conversations weren’t only serious; they could also be light-hearted and full of humor. They added that they were incredibly open and honest with one another.

The Louis Theroux Podcast is available on Spotify and all podcast platforms. 

Read More

2025-05-06 02:22

Previous post Tony & Ziva Are Back! New Threat Endangers Tali
Next post Tolkien’s Furious Rant Against Disney’s Dwarves