John Eric Bentley Discusses Barret Wallace in Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth

John Eric Bentley, the talented actor behind Barret Wallace in the upcoming Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth, has shared his insights on how the character has evolved since the original game. Bentley acknowledges that Barret has come a long way from his polygonal days more than two decades ago, and he is committed to bringing a fresh perspective to the character.

When reflecting on his initial encounter with Barret in the original game, Bentley admits to being pleasantly surprised by the presence of a Black character in an RPG. He recalls expecting the character to follow the stereotypical narrative of Black characters dying early in stories, but Barret defied those expectations. Bentley emphasizes the importance of portraying Barret authentically without falling into the trap of caricature.

In the upcoming sequel, Bentley promises to explore deeper connections between Barret and the other party members. He highlights Barret’s paternal relationship with Tifa, his leadership role within the group, and the budding friendship with Red XIII. These dynamics are set to add richness and complexity to Barret’s character, offering fans a more nuanced portrayal than what was seen in the original game.

Bentley hints at the sequel delving into Barret’s poignant backstory, shedding light on some of the character’s darker moments. He teases that Rebirth will tackle heavy themes, promising a deeper exploration of Barret’s journey and the challenges he faces along the way. As fans eagerly anticipate the game’s release, they can expect to uncover new layers of Barret’s compelling story.

Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth is poised to deliver an emotional and impactful experience, with Bentley’s nuanced performance bringing Barret to life in a whole new light. As the game’s release date approaches, fans can look forward to immersing themselves in Barret’s world and witnessing the character’s evolution firsthand. Bentley’s dedication to portraying Barret authentically and sensitively ensures that fans will have a memorable and engaging experience with Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth.