Resident Evil Requiem Actor Angela Sant’Albano Says Grace Ashcroft Will Never Be a “Leon Character,” but Still Has “a Long Way to Go”

The Resident Evil Requiem actor wants Grace to develop her relationships with Leon Kennedy and Emily while building confidence without becoming an action hero like Leon.

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Angela Sant'Albano, the actor behind Grace Ashcroft in Resident Evil Requiem

Angela Sant’Albano, the actor behind Grace Ashcroft in Resident Evil Requiem, believes the character has plenty of room to develop in future games, but she does not expect her to become another Leon Kennedy. In a recent interview, Sant’Albano explained that Grace’s growth should come from building confidence, trusting herself, and overcoming the doubts that hold her back.

Speaking to GamesRadar+ at the 2026 Golden Joystick Awards, Sant’Albano shared what she would like to explore if Grace returns to the franchise. Her comments offer a glimpse into how the actor views the character’s future, although Capcom has not officially confirmed another appearance for Grace.

Grace Ashcroft’s Future Should Not Turn Her Into Another Leon

Sant’Albano was clear that Grace does not need to become a highly skilled action hero to develop as a protagonist.

“I don’t think she’ll ever be a Leon character. She’s never going to be badass, you know, doing roundhouse kicks,”

the actor explained.

Instead, she wants Grace to become more confident as she learns to trust herself and forgive her past mistakes. Sant’Albano believes there is still considerable room for that personal development, saying,

“there’s a long way to go with her.”

This direction would preserve what makes Grace different from established Resident Evil protagonists. Her vulnerability and anxiety are important parts of her characterization, and becoming fearless overnight would undermine the gradual progress shown in Requiem.

Grace Ashcroft and Leon Kennedy feature as the two central protagonists of Resident Evil Requiem. (Image via Capcom)

Sant’Albano Wants to Explore Grace’s Relationships With Leon and Emily

Beyond Grace’s personal growth, Sant’Albano is interested in seeing how her connections with other characters develop. She specifically mentioned Leon, describing their dynamic as a developing mentorship with an almost brotherly and sisterly quality.

“I would really love to see how her relationship with Leon blossoms,”

she told GamesRadar+. The actor also wants to revisit Grace’s bond with Emily, whose performer, Emma Rose, has become a close friend of hers. Sant’Albano would like to see Grace take on “a more maternal role” and explore how that relationship changes over time.

These ideas suggest that the actor sees Grace’s future as being shaped by emotional connections as much as her ability to survive dangerous situations. However, they remain Sant’Albano’s hopes for the character rather than confirmation of Capcom’s plans.

Angela Sant’Albano Wins Best Lead Performer at the Golden Joystick Awards

Sant’Albano’s comments came during a major night for Resident Evil Requiem. She won the Golden Joystick Award for Best Lead Performer, while the game itself took home Ultimate Game of the Year. The recognition highlighted the impact of Grace’s performance and the character’s reception among players.

For now, Capcom has not announced whether Grace will return in another instalment. Sant’Albano’s remarks nevertheless make clear that she would welcome the opportunity to continue portraying her, particularly if the story allows Grace to grow without losing the vulnerability that distinguishes her from Leon.

Verified since 2021 Editor

Richard Rosales is an Editor at OtakuKart who quality-checks everything that is published on the site. Beyond his editorial role, he writes long-form Editor's Picks features on topics ranging from K-drama global popularity to gaming culture, productivity, and the broader impact of anime on lifestyle and education.

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