Japanese fans of Leon Kennedy appreciate the fan-favorite character’s new look. Leon, apparently 49 as of the events of Resident Evil Requiem, has facial hair, and fans compare current-year Leon to super cool actor Keanu Reeves. Japanese fans collectively refer to Leon as an ikeoji – a “hot uncle” or a cool and attractive older guy. “He’s aging in such a wonderful way, while retaining his coolness. I’m really looking forward to meeting this Leon,” said one user on X (formerly Twitter).
Whenever a new cool-looking character appears in an upcoming game, or an already existing character gets a new look, fan art is inevitable. Someone on X drew art of Resident Evil Requiem Leon.
Leon Kennedy’s Looks Break the Internet
Leon’s new look caught the attention of Bayonetta director Hideki Kamiya. On X, Mr. Kamiya wrote, “Uncle Leon, at the very least, I would like for you to live happily in your old age.” When a fan, who has not yet faced Kamiya’s block button, commented that they hope the Resident Evil and Devil May Cry characters receive a happy ending. Mr. Kamiya replied, “Even if Dante became happy, won’t he always be poor?”
People on X spotted a rash on Leon’s neck, which may imply that he’s infected. However, because Leon is playable alongside FBI analyst Grace Ashcroft, this “rash” won’t deter him, as Resident Evil director Akifumi Nakanishi said that Leon’s gameplay will be like Resident Evil 4, while Grace’s gameplay will be like Resident Evil 2.
Where Has Leon Been?
Resident Evil Requiem marks Leon’s first appearance since 2012’s Resident Evil 6. On December 9, 2025, the PlayStation Store accidentally revealed Leon’s appearance in Resident Evil Requiem.
Leon Kennedy first appeared in Resident Evil 4, initially released for the GameCube on January 11, 2005. The game later came out for the PlayStation 2 on October 25, 2005. In RE4, Leon must find and rescue the president’s daughter from cultists in rural Spain.
Resident Evil 4 received a remake that came out on March 24, 2023 for various platforms. Resident Evil Requiem will come out on February 27, 2026 for Xbox X|S, PlayStation 5, PC and Nintendo Switch 2.
