Dion Actor discusses Final Fantasy 16 character, LGBTQ+ representation, and more
Dion Actor discusses Final Fantasy 16 character, LGBTQ+ representation, and more
Final Fantasy 16: The Rise of Dion Lesage, the Fabulous Dragoon Prince
There’s a rich legacy of dragoons in the Final Fantasy series, from Kain in Final Fantasy 4 to Estinien in Final Fantasy 14. And now, in the latest installment, we have Dion Lesage, the flamboyant and fabulous dragoon prince who steals the show in Final Fantasy 16. Dion is not just a dragoon, he’s a prince, a tragic hero, and the first openly gay main character in the Final Fantasy franchise. Talk about breaking barriers and slaying monsters!
As players, we’ve had the pleasure of witnessing Dion’s epic journey unfold. Well, most of us at least. I don’t currently have a PS5, so I’ve been living vicariously through streamers like Esfand, Hollow, and RogersBase. Watching their reactions and sharing in the excitement of each story beat has been an absolute blast. But with my birthday just around the corner, it might be time to bite the bullet and get that new console. It’s the perfect excuse!
Now, let’s hear from the man behind the fabulous dragoon himself, Stewart Clarke. In an exclusive interview with GameTopic, Stewart shared his insights into Dion’s character and what it was like playing such an important role. And trust me, it’s not just about slaying dragons and looking fabulous while doing it.
Dion is more than just a dragoon with killer fashion sense. He’s a dutiful prince, devoted to his people and his kingdom. He’s constantly torn between his sense of honor and his desire to do right by others. One of the most fun aspects for Stewart to play was Dion’s inner conflict, especially in the scenes with his father. Imagine battling against hierarchy and honor, while also trying to save the world from impending doom. Talk about a tough day at the office!
But let’s talk about the real game-changer here. Dion is not just an iconic dragoon, he’s also the first openly gay main character in the Final Fantasy series. And that’s something to celebrate! Stewart felt honored and responsible to portray this aspect of Dion with respect and truth. Dion’s relationship with Terence is heart-wrenching, showcasing his selflessness and the sacrifices he’s willing to make for others. It’s fantastic to have characters like Dion where their sexuality is not up for interpretation but simply a fact. Everyone deserves to be represented in the media they enjoy, and Dion is making sure of that!
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Now, let’s dive into some of the standout moments from Final Fantasy 16. From the awe-inspiring battle with Bahamut to the emotional parting scene between Dion and Terence, there were plenty of unforgettable moments. Stewart couldn’t help but get emotional himself, especially when Dion’s theme played during the parting scene. Cue the waterworks, indeed!
As an actor, landing the role of an iconic Final Fantasy dragoon was a dream come true for Stewart. The audition process was shrouded in secrecy, so when he found out he was playing a dragoon and the dominant of Bahamut, he lost his mind. And who can blame him? Being part of such a legendary franchise is truly an honor.
Dion’s complex relationships in the game, especially with his father, had a profound impact on Stewart’s approach to the character. Seeing his father succumb to darkness and struggling with conflicting emotions was heartbreaking. Life is rarely convenient, and Dion had to come to terms with the fact that the person he knew and loved was no longer the same.
But amidst all the chaos, there’s one person who brings light into Dion’s life: the medicine girl who heals him. She represents the people Dion was meant to protect, even though he failed to do so. Her kindness and the reality of her life give Dion the strength to continue fighting. Although he can’t change the past, he’s determined to do right by her and ensure the survival of Valisthea, no matter the personal cost.
Speaking of personal connections, let’s talk about Dion’s relationship with Terence. Childhood friends who became something more, their love transcends rank and military obligations. Moments of tenderness and intimacy in the command tent remind us of the deep connection they share. Stewart found a lot of meaning in the simple yet powerful line where Dion acknowledges Terence’s unwavering support during the “Dragoon Coup.” It’s a fleeting moment of vulnerability and a testament to their bond.
In an ideal world, Dion, Terence, and the medicine girl could form a beautiful family. But Dion’s duty to the Empire might have prevented him from even considering such a possibility. However, Stewart believes that if given the chance, Dion and Terence would make phenomenal fathers, with the kind and resourceful medicine girl as their daughter. It’s a heartwarming thought amidst a world filled with chaos.
The massive fan reaction and the love for Dion have been overwhelming for Stewart. It’s incredible to see how many people have connected with Dion and his complex journey. He’s a true tragic hero, and the messages pouring in about how deeply people were touched by his arc in the game have been heartening. It’s a character that suggests a rich history and begs for more exploration. So, Square Enix, will you answer the call?
Now, let’s finish on a lighter note. Behind the scenes, there were some hilarious moments, like the struggle to pronounce “Greagor” correctly. Is it Greegor? Graygor? Groogor? It’s a mystery that even the pronunciation archive couldn’t fully solve. And, of course, Stewart can’t help but wonder what Dion’s semi-primed Bahamut form would look like. Fan artists, get creative and show us your interpretations!
Final Fantasy 16 is not just a game; it’s an epic adventure featuring a dragoon prince who breaks boundaries and steals our hearts. Dion Lesage is a character who will be remembered for years to come, and we can’t wait to see what the future holds for him. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to go get myself a PS5 and join the ranks of those experiencing the magic firsthand.
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Original Source: Final Fantasy 16: An Interview With Stewart Clarke
