The casting of the role of Ellie in HBO’s adaptation ofThe Last of Uswas a challenging task, as the selected actor needed to capture the same gravity, vulnerability, and wit that were present in the original game. While it is often challenging to find a child actor who is capable of bringing this density of emotion to a part,Bella Ramseyhad already proven their talents with an excellent guest role onGame of Thrones.Ramsey’s performance as Lyanna Mormontbecame a favorite among fansof George R.R. Martin’s universe, even whenGame of Thronesitself began to earn more mixed reactions for its later seasons.
Game of Throneshad one of the most impressive ensemblesin the history of dramatic television, as the density of the narrative necessitated that new cast members be cycled in regularly. Even for those who may be familiar with the original novels, keeping track of the various allegiances, backstories, and motivations for each character could be confusing, particularly when showrunnersDavid BenioffandDan Weisskept pulling the rug out from under them to create another twist. However,Ramsey’s inspiring, eloquent characterization of Lyanna was instantly recognizableand earned their place among the best heroes in the history of Westeros.
Who Did Bella Ramsey Play in ‘Game of Thrones?'
Lyanna Mormont is the Lady of Bear Island and the leader of House Mormont, a role she inherited after her mother, Maege (Elizabeth Barrett), was killed during the War of the Five Kings. While Ramsey didn’t make an appearance on the show until the end of Season 6, it is revealed to both Jon Snow (Kit Harrington) and Sansa Stark (Sophie Turner) that she refused to pledge allegiance to Stannis Baratheon (Stephen Dillane), as they only would serve alongside the “King of the North,” who had the name “Stark.” While this may have initially been intended to be Robb Stark (Richard Madden), Lyanna agrees to make House Mormont part of Jon’s army as he attempts to take down Ramsay Bolton (Iwan Rheon), who had taken control of Winterfell. Although there is some political confusion in the aftermath, Lyanna is among the first of the northern leaders to proclaim Jon as “The King of the North”during the powerful ending of the show’s sixth season.
The choices Lyanna makes are refreshing incomparison to otherGame of Thronescharacters,as their rivals made decisions that were based on emotion, not logic. Lyanna understood that the sanctity of the North, which had existed for generations, would be under threat if the houses pledged themselves to another foreign ruler who had plans to take the Iron Throne.While Lyanna understood that Stannis had no compassion for the northern colonies, as he presented himself as a better option compared to Cersei (Lena Headey), Jon intended to unite the place where he had grown up.Lyanna is among the fewGame of Thronesleaders who understood that there was a time and place for sacrifice. At the same time, blood should not have been spilled in trivial ways; there was honor in sacrificing oneself for the betterment of their community.
Lyanna was also one of the most entertaining characters onGame of Thrones, as they constantly delivered steely, straightforward advice to Jon and Sansa, who were both overwhelmed by the complex political situation they found themselves in. Although it is evident that the people of House Mormont have weathered significant pain and suffering as a result of the warring factions, Lyanna puts forth a face of resilience and strength that enhances their civic pride. Nonetheless, Ramsey does a great job at showing the vulnerability that Lyanna has, as she is still mourning the losses that her family faced; she has a poignant moment with Jon, who is himself still recovering from the death of Ned Stark (Sean Bean),the man he believed to be his father.
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“It ain’t the scope; it’s the shooter.”
Lyanna provided the most practical advice to Jonduring the events of the last few seasons, and provided warnings about the threats that Daenerys Targaryen (Emilia Clarke) presented to their alliance. While some of the other Northern lords grew to detest Daenerys because of generational bigotry, Lyanna understood that an alliance with her could sacrifice the independence of the North, which is what their men had already been sacrificed for. While Jon expresses his disinterest in actually ruling under the title of King, Lyanna impresses upon him that this reluctance iswhy he will be a good leader, as he is impervious to the corrupting nature of power.
The eighth season ofGame of Thrones, and the episode “The Long Night” in particular, are often cited as massive disappointments, as they felt like an abrupt conclusion to a story that had been building for almost a decade. Whilemany of the heroes that perishin the Battle of Winterfell seemingly die purely for the sake of shock value,Lyanna’s sacrifice is among the most powerful moments in the eighth season. Lyanna has established a loyalty to their people that is incapable of being broken, so it wouldn’t make sense if they were anywhere but the battlefield during the fight against the Whitewalkers. While much ofGame of Thrones’ final season was more focused on action, rather than the characterization that had made previous seasons so good, the bonding moment between Lyanna and their first cousin, Jorah (Iain Glen), was a powerful reminder of the family ties that bind.
Ramsey perfectly captured the essence ofGame of Throneswith their seamless ability to recite extended lines of dialogue in a memorable way.Much of the show’s brilliancewas that it established a universe that felt like it existed long before and after the events that were depicted, and Ramsey showed the tiny role that Lyanna played within one of the most significant events.Ellie has become one of the most beloved characters in the history of HBO, but Ramsey’s performance wouldn’t have been possible had they not already turned Lyanna into an equally defiant protagonist.
BothGame of ThronesandThe Last of Usare streaming on Max in the U.S.
Game Of Thrones
