Capcom's worst-kept secret was finally revealed at The Game Awards, where Leon S. Kennedy was confirmed as the protagonist of the upcoming Resident Evil Requiem, alongside newcomer Grace Ashcroft.
Leon is approximately 51 years old during the events of Requiem, and appears noticeably older than in his last series appearance in Resident Evil 6. However, the years have clearly been kind to Leon as his new look has proven to be very popular with both Japanese and international fans.
Himbo renaissance
“He looks ugly yet clean. Damn, they cooked,” Temporary_Round555 comments in a thread about Leon's reveal. Leon is arguably the most popular main character the series has ever had, but his inclusion in Requiem serves a purpose beyond fan service. Leon's many encounters with the various biological horrors in Resident Evil's setting have given him experience and fearlessness, two qualities that Requiem's other protagonist, Grace, lacks. The pair complement each other.
“We had dad Chris, and now we got dad Leon,” writes EmilioTremaine. Chris Redfield played the role of a wily supporting veteran in Resident Evil 7 and Village; a role that Leon seems to take for Grace in Requiem.
“You're as beautiful as the day I last saw you,” CrazyFreakAdro gushes. Kennedy's fashion sense has also drawn compliments, with several commentators demanding to know where the federal agent bought his coat.
In Japan, Leon has been labeled “Ikeoji”. This essentially means “attractive middle-aged man” and is exactly what Capcom was going for with the character's design in Requiem (thanks, Automaton).
“He's not the fresh and youthful kind of hot guy he was in Resident Evil 4; he's a seasoned Ikeoji now! This Leon is hot in his own way too,” writes Hanagili_0906.
Resident Evil 2 director Hideki Kamiya also gave his thoughts on the reveal, lamenting how beloved game characters aged just like everyone in the real world who grew up with them.
Resident Evil Requiem finally acknowledges that Leon Kennedy is in the game
Finally.
“It's a bit disturbing how Leon, Dante and Ryu are getting old bastards day by day,” writes Kamiya. “Uncle Leon, I hope you at least live a happy life in old age.”
I think we're all hoping for a happy ending for Leon, but how many more impossible situations can our surly hero conquer?
Resident Evil Requiem
- Released
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February 27, 2026
- ESRB
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Mature 17+ / Intense Violence, Blood and Gore, Strong Language, In-Game Purchase
- Engine
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RE engine
