In a feature for Resident Evil’s 30th anniversary, Maggie Robertson, who played Lady Dimitrescu in Resident Evil Village, reflects on how the character became a queer icon. Robertson shares her experience of portraying Lady Dimitrescu and how the role changed her life.
Lady Dimitrescu: A Queer Icon
As the guardian of the Black Eagle facility, Lady Dimitrescu has become a queer icon among fans of the survival Horror game. Her tall stature and powerful persona have earned her a place in gaming history, but it’s her empowering and unconventional portrayal as a female character that has solidified her place in gaming history.
Robertson’s performance as Lady Dimitrescu earned her the Best Performance award at The Game Awards in 2021. Despite being defeated early in the game, the iconic character resonated with audiences, becoming the most iconic character despite appearing in one of the game’s most difficult scenarios.
Robertson explains, “I was thrilled to be asked to play a role in such a big game, but I didn’t think the character would resonate with players.” Despite the character’s lack of screen time, the success of Lady Dimitrescu can be attributed to her empowering and unconventional portrayal as a female character.
Robertson continues, “I think audiences are attracted to villainous women who are unapologetic and unafraid to stand in their power.” With her unwavering confidence and rejection of societal norms, Lady Dimitrescu has become an unintended icon among queer players.
Reflecting on the character’s enduring popularity, Robertson says, “Art is subjective. The true beauty lies in the ongoing interpretation and conversation among fans.” She continues, “I’m grateful that players can find the character meaningful in their lives and experience.”
Robertson also acknowledges that art reflects the time in which it is created. “Although art is subjective, it still has the power to highlight a moment or movement and add depth and understanding to a character’s story.”
She continues, “I think this is especially true with social media and the way fans can amplify the impact of a character’s story.” The character’s enduring popularity reflects the need for more diverse and inclusive representation in gaming.
“I see Lady Dimitrescu as a representation of strength and self-acceptance for queer communities,” Robertson shares. “The idea of creating a chosen family and living a life full of love is extremely powerful for anyone who identifies with her.”
Robertson also reflects on her experience as an actor. “Acting is about bringing truth to a character, and when a character resonates with audiences, it’s about finding the humanity in them.” She adds, “Lady Dimitrescu is an outsider and a rejection of societal norms. That’s how most people view themselves, so I think that’s why she can be so empowering.”
The character’s impact goes beyond her role in the game, showcasing the influence and power of video game characters. “As an actor, I’m excited about the continued interpretation and exploration of Lady Dimitrescu’s character by fans,” Robertson says. “The beauty of art is about the ongoing [discussion] and deepening understanding.”
The ongoing conversation and deepening understanding of the character contribute to the beauty of art. The character’s popularity as a queer icon reflects the importance of representation and visibility in the gaming industry.
Robertson reflects, “In a predominantly male-dominated industry, it’s important to have representation of all kinds.” She continues, “Visibility and representation is so crucial to the success and inclusivity of gaming.”
If you’re a fan of Resident Evil, check out some of the best Resident Evil 2 characters and the upcoming Resident Evil 4 Remake release date. You can also read up on the latest Resident Evil 7: Shadow House updates and get a glimpse of what’s to come in the creepy game.
