One of the stars of Game of Thrones and The Last of Us had a lesser known role in a popular children's TV series.

Bella Ramsey, known for her role as Ellie in the HBO show, also starred as the lead in a CBBC show, a fact that might surprise some fans.

While she made a striking impression as Lyanna Mormont in Game of Thrones, it wasn't long before she landed a leading role. She featured in the children's programme The Worst Witch from 2017 to 2020.

Ramsey portrayed Mildred Hubble in this fantasy drama based on Jill Murphy's books. This was the second live-action adaptation of the series, following an ITV version that aired from 1997 to 2001.

Ramsey only appeared in the first three out of four series as Mildred, between the ages of 14 and 17, before deciding to exit the show. Her character was recast, with a magic potion storyline explaining the change in appearance.

The series continued for just one more season without Ramsey, concluding in 2020. All episodes remain available for streaming on BBC iPlayer, reports . It was reported that Ramsey left the show due to mental health concerns.

Indeed, she has previously disclosed that her decision to leave was because she was in a better place and wanted to move on from that chapter of her life. She had found the 16-week filming schedule away from home challenging and later realised she had developed an eating disorder.

In a candid chat with Elle in 2023, they shared: "I know it's sort of been publicised a lot that I left (The Worst Witch) for mental health reasons. I would say the more accurate description is that I had resolved a lot of my mental health problems by that point."

Expanding on their departure, they said: "And then the idea was that, 'I'm not going to do this fourth season because it's not worth it, because I'm in a better place now. This is not something that I want to continue to string out and have the recurring issues that stem from that first season. I don't need or want to do this anymore.'".

The show, The Worst Witch, has nonetheless received glowing recognition, securing a perfect rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Critics have been quick to spot emerging talent, with one noting: "Bella Ramsey is a kids TV star in the making as the spirited and sweet Mildred, while Meibh Campbell is a brilliant foil as the clumsy Maud."

Another critic pointed out: "The series is sweet, fun, and a little bit goofy, which is rather what The Worst Witch franchise has always been. It's not groundbreaking children's entertainment, but it is a delightful escape for kids all ages."

Despite leaving The Worst Witch earlier than intended, Bella's career trajectory remained on an upward climb. Subsequent projects included joining the cast of the second season of His Dark Materials and featuring in the anthology drama Time.

Additionally, they scored roles in movies such as Catherine Called Birdy and Chicken Run: Dawn of the Nugget.

The Last of Us continues Monday at 9pm on Sky Atlantic and streaming on NOW.