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Famous character will not be in the new Resident Evil movie

Stefani Couto
Journalist by training, gamer by passion! I write about games, trivia, and guides to help other players explore this incredible universe.

Director Zach Cregger confirmed that the next Resident Evil film will take a completely new path, leaving aside classic characters from the franchise. The aim is to create an original plot, set in the universe of Capcom games, but without repeating narratives already explored. Among the absent names is the beloved Leon S. Kennedy.

Cregger states that the production will be faithful to the rules and atmosphere of the games, while also featuring new protagonists and challenges. The film, scheduled for release in September 2026, aims to offer fans a unique experience on the big screen.

Resident Evil 9 could recapture the psychological horror and mechanics of RE7
Photo: Press release/Capcom

The team is betting on innovation within the Resident Evil universe

According to the director, the decision not to bring back Leon or other classic heroes doesn't mean a departure from the original material. On the contrary, the plot will seek to capture the essence of tension and survival that made the franchise famous. By opting for new characters, the film opens up space for surprises and avoids direct comparisons with the stories already established in the games.

Focus on the suspense and horror atmosphere characteristic of the series

Cregger highlighted that he intends to recreate the intense feeling of video games on screen, where the player finds themselves trapped in dark and menacing environments. The promise is of a script that leads the audience through a growing journey of danger, exploring the fear of the unknown and the struggle for survival.

New reboot under the Sony Pictures label

The project marks the second cinematic reboot of Resident Evil, now under the supervision of Sony Pictures. In addition to directing, Cregger wrote the screenplay, and actor Austin Abrams, known for his role in Euphoria, is expected to play the lead. The release is scheduled for September 18, 2026, and the expectation is that the film will stand out precisely because it doesn't attempt to replicate already known plots.

Leon was dropped as the protagonist of Resident Evil Requiem
Photo: Press release/Capcom

A love letter to the fans of the franchise

For the filmmaker, this new approach is not just a creative strategy, but also a gesture of respect for the fanbase. By preserving the essence of the Resident Evil universe while presenting something new, the production seeks to please both veterans and new viewers. The intention is to deliver a story that dialogues with the atmosphere of the games, but offers a fresh and surprising look at the terror that defines the saga.

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