Following the passing of beloved actor Stephen Critchlow, Final Fantasy 14's community is paying tribute to him for his role as Count Edmont De Fortemps. Players gathered together in Ishgard, home to Edmont De Fortemps, and lined the streets for their own in-game memorial.
All across global data centers, Final Fantasy 14's community continues to line the streets around the mansion you visit throughout Heavensward, where Count Edmont De Fortemps lives. Critchlow played the count, a major character in the game's first expansion who also served as the narrator, and the community learned of his passing yesterday. Critchlow was 54 years old, and known for a legacy of work that spanned multiple mediums like theatre, television, radio, video games, and film.
Players began to gather early yesterday and still remain there today. On my server, Leviathan, players are still teleporting to The Last Vigil and using the Wanderer's Campfire item to quietly pay tribute. Some players are even offering to give the in-game item to others, so everyone involved can play a part in the memorial. Across social media, users are also sharing their memories of Critchlow's character, along with screenshots and footage of the vigil.
Critchlow worked with Big Finish Productions, playing roles in audio dramas like Doctor Who, The Archers, and Torchwood. His video game performances also include credits in Xenoblade Chronicles 2, Dragon Quest Heroes, Killzone 2, and Killzone 3. His fans are also honoring his memory by making donations to a fundraiser Critchlow set up on behalf of NHS charities.
The Final Fantasy 14 community holds its creatives in high regard, and players are known for their enthusiasm over those involved with the work. Critchlow's tribute is similar to another held earlier this year for manga artist Kentaro Miura, creator of Berserk.