Norman Reedus is a Hollywood icon best known for cult classic movies likeThe Boondock Saints, but he’s become unexpectedly prevalent in the video game industry as of late. Of course, he reprised his famous role as Sam Porter Bridges inDeath Stranding 2: On the Beach, but in even more recent news, it was revealed that he’ll be coming to the popular asynchronousmultiplayer horror gameDead by Daylight, reprising the role of Daryl Dixon fromThe Walking Dead.
Reedus himself will voice his character inDead by Daylight, further strengthening his connection to the world of video game acting. Unfortunately, he won’t be a proper Survivor in Dead by Daylight asThe Walking Dead’s Rick Grimes and Michonne Grimes/Hawthorne are the two new Survivors, while Daryl merely appears as an alternate skin for Rick. In other words, there will be no Daryl-specific perks inDead by Daylight. Nevertheless, it’s cool to see Norman Reedus thrust back into the gaming sphere so soon afterDeath Stranding 2, and it could even signal the start of a Reedus renaissance, as it were.
Norman Reedus Has an X-Factor That Gives Him Mass Appeal
There’s something about Reedus that exudes cool, rugged confidence, making him a natural fit for the leading man position in whatever media he’s featured in. Indeed,Death Stranding’s Sam Porter Bridgesmanages to be a memorable, admirable, and relatable character despite his reserved attitude. In fact, it may be this introverted, deceptively laid-back persona that makes Sam such a great gaming protagonist, as there’s enough wiggle room in his personality for the player’s perspective to squeeze in.
Even inThe Walking Dead, where he only plays a supporting role, Reedus turns out an unforgettable performance as Daryl Dixon. Over the course of the show’s 11-season run, Dixon remains one of the few consistent, familiar faces, never straying from his position as a fan favorite, and his own eponymous show is still airing.
Again, Reedus' depiction of the rugged, somewhat poorly adjusted wanderer captures the essence of cool determination: he blends quiet masculinity with sensitivity and kindness, making him easy to latch onto. These traits will, with any luck, shine through in Reedus' depiction ofDaryl inDead by Daylight, and perhaps in future games as well.
What’s Next for Norman Reedus' Video Game Career?
AfterDeath Stranding 2, and since there probablywon’t be aDeath Stranding 3, it would be understandable for Reedus to take a break from the gaming world for a bit. But even if this happens, it would be nice to see him return at some point, even if it’s only for a supporting role or cameo of some kind. After his exceptional two-game depiction of Sam Porter Bridges, one would imagine that he would have the pick of the litter when it comes to future mo-cap roles.
Maybe Reedus could play against type at some point down the road. There’s certainly potential for him to fill the shoes of a more over-the-top character, contrasting the somewhat aloof personalities of Sam and Daryl. Considering the games industry’s potential for fantasticalstorytelling like inGod of War, perhaps Reedus could depict a soured god, superhuman, or military leader of some sort, as these could serve as more challenging roles for the seasoned performer. Either way, Reedus' video game prominence could just be getting started.
