Get ready, fans! Capcom officially confirmed Leon S. Kennedy's return as the second playable protagonist in Resident Evil Requiem (known as Biohazard Requiem in Japan) during the latest trailer reveal at The Game Awards 2025.
While our favorite series veteran is clearly rocking a more mature vibe this time around, his new look has absolutely blown up in Japan, earning him the affectionate nickname "Ikeoji"—a term for a charming and handsome "sexy older guy." 
Slated for release on February 27, 2026, Resident Evil Requiem marks the ninth main installment in the iconic horror franchise. This entry introduces a brand-new character, Grace Ashcroft, an FBI analyst tasked with investigating a series of mysterious deaths. From the trailer, it looks like Grace's segments will lean into the classic survival horror experience, while Leon is back with his signature action-packed combat style—even wielding a chainsaw to take on zombies head-on!
As soon as the trailer dropped, Leon's fresh appearance became an instant sensation across Japanese social media. Many players are raving about how he's aged like fine wine, exuding a newfound calm and sophistication. Comments like "Leon got hot in his old age" and "49-year-old Leon is still incredibly charming" flooded timelines.
This surge of excitement has even sparked a wave of fan art, with artists drawing inspiration from his new look and comparing him to the ultimate mature heartthrob, Keanu Reeves.
However, eagle-eyed players also spotted what looks like a red rash on Leon's neck in the trailer, leading to speculation about potential infection or a major plot twist. Some fans are also expressing concern about his age, questioning whether he should still be risking his life against mutated monsters. In response, Akifumi Nakanishi, the game's director, teased that Leon harbors a "significant secret" in this installment, one that will critically impact the story's development—though details remain under wraps for now. 
With official statements emphasizing that Leon and Grace will have roughly equal screen time, Resident Evil Requiem isn't just continuing the series' terrifying legacy; it's also set to deliver a fresh emotional resonance for long-time fans through its evolving characters.
via： IGN