Pedro Pascal & Bella Ramsey: How Game of Thrones Forged The Last of Us Duo
Discover how Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey’s Game of Thrones experiences shaped their dynamic as the iconic duo in The Last of Us.
Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey: From Westeros to the Post-Apocalypse
Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey both left indelible marks on the world of television through their performances on Game of Thrones. Years later, their paths converged as the leading pair of HBO’s critically acclaimed series The Last of Us, but their journeys were shaped by experiences within the legendary walls of Westeros—a connection that informs their on-screen partnership and real-world dynamic.
The Game of Thrones Legacy
Though Pascal and Ramsey’s characters occupied different eras in the Game of Thrones timeline—and never crossed paths on screen—their individual experiences within the same universe significantly influenced their professional and personal lives.
- Pedro Pascal joined as Oberyn Martell, the Red Viper of Dorne, in Season 4. His quest for justice for his sister and his fateful duel made Oberyn a fan favorite, despite his early exit from the series.
- Bella Ramsey made a standout debut in Season 6 as Lyanna Mormont, the resolute Lady of Bear Island, earning acclaim for her fierce presence and unwavering loyalty before her heroic end in the Battle of Winterfell.
Never Meeting On Screen, Sharing a Fandom
Pascal’s Oberyn Martell had already perished by the time Ramsey’s Lyanna Mormont was introduced. Despite not interacting in the series, they each became beloved figures for fans. Pascal noted, “It made us come from a family without knowing each other already… To have two characters that the fans liked make their entrance and make their exit is parallel for the both of us and a kind of bonding thing before we even got a chance to bond.”
How Game of Thrones Prepared Them for The Last of Us
The epic drama and scale of Game of Thrones provided a unique foundation for both actors. Their reflections highlight how the series taught them crucial lessons, built resilience, and shaped their approaches to new challenges.
- Bella Ramsey credits Game of Thrones for launching her career: “I wouldn’t have been an actor if it wasn’t for Game of Thrones, ‘cause I never really set out to be [one]… It set me up and prepared me for The Last of Us, and all my other projects, in ways that I don’t think anything else could.”
- Pedro Pascal states that being part of the Game of Thrones ensemble provided him with a sense of camaraderie and belonging, even before meeting Ramsey.
Bella Ramsey’s Acting Journey: Discovering a Passion
Unlike many who dream of stardom from a young age, Ramsey’s journey into acting was unexpected. Her reflections offer insight into her natural talent and adaptability.
- Ramsey didn’t grow up watching many movies or TV shows, and didn’t initially aspire to be an actor.
- The performance of Katniss Everdeen (Jennifer Lawrence) in The Hunger Games was a pivotal moment for Ramsey: “I didn’t have a moment where I was like, oh, that’s it—but I remember watching Jennifer Lawrence and wanting to do that.”
- Her first years on Game of Thrones began at age 11, with formative memories of meeting Kit Harington (Jon Snow), whom Ramsey recalls being kind and cool, even complimenting her Dr. Martens—making it the best day of her life.
- Ramsey was inquisitive and curious about every department on set, eager to understand how the vast production worked.
Bella Ramsey’s Standout Game of Thrones Moments
- First day filming involved riding horses; later became a meme or gif among fans.
- Her first major scene involved interactions with Jon Snow, Davos, and Sansa in House Mormont’s halls—soaking in the spectacle and asking countless questions about the production.
- Ramsey’s loyalty as Lyanna Mormont, supporting Jon Snow’s claim and ultimately dying a hero, cemented her place as a fan favorite.
Pedro Pascal’s Path: Oberyn Martell’s Lasting Impact
Pascal’s season-long stint as Oberyn Martell made a powerful impression—and his experience in the complex politics and intense battles of Westeros helped forge his gravitas as an actor.
- Oberyn’s introduction brought intrigue, charisma, and a thirst for justice; his championing of Tyrion and eventual death became iconic series moments.
- Pascal’s reflection on parallel exits with Ramsey speaks to the emotional resonance of their departures and the legacy they shared with fans.
The Last of Us: Reunion and Relatability
In The Last of Us, Pascal and Ramsey’s partnership was shaped by their prior connections and shared sensibilities. The post-apocalyptic series demanded emotional depth, trust, and vulnerability—qualities cultivated during their time on Game of Thrones.
- Ramsey describes initial anxiety over meeting Pascal, worried about their chemistry: “I was really worried that we wouldn’t get on… I put so much pressure on our relationship, thinking we had to be best friends.”
- The relationship developed organically as the shoot progressed: “We just instantly got along and… were super shy of each other to start with and then got to know each other more as the show went on and as Joel and Ellie.”
- Their friendship became a real-life parallel to the evolving Joel and Ellie dynamic on screen.
Reliving Fandom: Games, Consoles, and Adaptation
- Ramsey had not played The Last of Us game before landing the part, but watched gameplay to understand the character. She was not an experienced gamer growing up, playing mostly Wii tennis and Mario Kart.
- The challenge of adapting iconic game characters to television further heightened their sense of responsibility to the fan base.
Beyond the Show: Queer Representation and Impact
Ramsey’s journey extends beyond acting prowess, encompassing her place as a queer icon and advocate for authentic representation in media.
- Ramsey highlights that while she wouldn’t normally choose a show labeled “queer,” she appreciates the natural, accessible way that The Last of Us incorporates queer characters and storylines: “It just makes it really accessible for people… it’s naturally woven in.”
- The show’s third episode (Season 1) features a heartfelt gay love story between Bill and Frank, celebrated by both fans and Ramsey for its beauty and realism: “Why wouldn’t there be a gay love story in the apocalypse? There are two people who fall in love who just happen to be guys.”
Representation That Resonates
- The organic approach to diversity sets The Last of Us apart as a model for future television adaptation.
- Ramsey appreciates the impact this has, stating it’s both groundbreaking and accessible for wider audiences.
Props and Memory: Game of Thrones Mementos
When asked which props they would bring from Game of Thrones to The Last of Us, Pascal and Ramsey shared thoughtful insights reflecting their attachments to their respective character histories and motivations.
- Pascal’s choice referenced Oberyn Martell’s spear—symbol of his fighting spirit and personal justice.
- Ramsey considered Lyanna Mormont’s strength and authority; bringing the energy and sense of command from her sword and House Mormont’s sigil.
Comparing Game of Thrones and The Last of Us: Key Differences & Shared Strengths
| Aspect | Game of Thrones | The Last of Us |
|---|---|---|
| Setting | Medieval fantasy, rival houses, dragons | Post-apocalyptic, survival, infected creatures |
| Main Themes | Power, politics, loyalty | Survival, love, loss, resilience |
| Character Arcs | Multi-layered, sprawling ensemble | Intimate focus on Joel & Ellie’s journey |
| Fanbase | Political intrigue, epic battles | Heartfelt relationships, emotional journeys |
| Queer Representation | Limited and often controversial | Organic, central, positively depicted |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Did Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey work together on Game of Thrones?
No, their characters did not interact; Pedro Pascal’s Oberyn Martell appeared in Season 4 and Bella Ramsey’s Lyanna Mormont debuted in Season 6, but their shared Game of Thrones experience fostered an unspoken bond.
How did Game of Thrones help Bella Ramsey’s career?
Game of Thrones launched Ramsey’s career, instilling confidence and invaluable skills that prepared her for future roles, including her lead in The Last of Us.
What aspects of Game of Thrones influenced Pedro Pascal’s portrayal in The Last of Us?
The camaraderie, emotional depth, and commitment to character that marked Pascal’s performance as Oberyn Martell helped him embrace Joel’s complexities in The Last of Us.
Why is representation in The Last of Us considered groundbreaking?
The show’s natural and positive incorporation of queer storylines—such as the Bill and Frank romance—sets a new standard for authenticity and accessibility in television.
What prop would Pedro Pascal bring from Game of Thrones to The Last of Us?
Pascal said he would bring Oberyn’s spear, symbolizing tenacity and protection, while Ramsey would carry the energy of Lyanna’s sword and family sigil to channel Mormont courage.
Conclusion: Westeros Roots, New Horizons
The shared legacy of Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey in Game of Thrones laid the groundwork for their deep, compelling connection in The Last of Us. Through nuanced performances, respect for their characters’ histories, and a commitment to authentic storytelling, they continue to bridge worlds—united by the lessons of the past and a vision for television’s future.
References
- https://collider.com/the-last-of-us-pedro-pascal-bella-ramsey-game-of-thrones-comments/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mDlNICmV9pc
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QBjLu65zwZo
- https://wikiofthrones.com/pedro-pascal-and-bella-ramsey-talk-about-the-game-of-thrones-props-they-would-bring-to-the-last-of-us
