Tell Me Why’s August Black on shaping the first triple-A trans protagonist
It’s hard to believe that Tell Me Why only came out in August last year. But ever since it did, there has been a variety of discussion around the game: its story, characters, and more importantly, how DONTNOD and August Black have shaped the first major trans protagonist, Tyler Ronan.
Tyler Ronan was not the first trans protagonist in games, anyone who delves deep into the queer, indie games scene will tell you that – but for queer gamers out there who aren’t into indies? He made all the difference, presenting a protagonist that was not only painfully relatable, but was treated with respect within Tell Me Why’s narrative.
But there couldn’t have been a Tyler Ronan without August Black. Tyler’s confidence, frank attitude about being who he is, and his love for himself, is partly due to August Black and what he wanted Tyler to convey, both as a trans man and as someone who has gone through some extraordinary things. And not all good, either.
But how else did August help in creating a character that’s as well-loved as Tyler? We had the opportunity to speak to Tyler’s voice actor about just how it feels to help shape a character that has touched so many gamers – trans or otherwise.
How was the experience of helping to shape Tyler for DONTNOD?
I would say my experience shaping Tyler was unexpected. Not for one second did I think I was going to walk into a room and be treated with so much respect and admiration for just being who I am. And it didn’t have anything to do with my transness. They respected me as an actor and a fellow human being. So when I was giving the responsibility of helping shape such an already well rounded character and individual it was a pleasant surprise. I loved every second of the experience.
Were you able to inject much of your own experiences into the character?
Any time a line didn’t quite feel right, my feelings were heard. The writing and directing team genuinely wanted to make sure every possibly “sensitive” moment was met with the upmost care. And so yes, my experiences as a person who suffers from gender dysphoria and consequently transitioned to overcome those hurdles in life just like Tyler; helped me and Tyler make the Tell Me Why game one as close to “real” as we could.
You said in your Gayming Awards 2021 acceptance speech that Tyler was a huge part of you – how has being Tyler changed your life – both from a career and personal perspective?
Tyler gave me voice-over and the Tell Me Why experience gave me a lot of confidence in my ability as an actor. Amanda Wyatt and Erica Lindbeck really coached me and helped me grow. Voice over is no joke! But hard work pays off. The community after the game feels just as important as the community I built during recording. One big family, wanting the best for everyone.
How does it feel that you have led the way for other trans people who haven’t been able to see themselves in the triple A games world until now?
I think that part is still settling in. I had no idea what Tell Me Why was going to be like until we started recording. As we moved through the game, I realized how important this character was going to be for the transgender community. Specifically, the transmasc and transmale community. Positive representation is still a new thing and Tyler embodies it to the fullest. He is proud. As you should be.
How has the reception been from the fans of your portrayal of Tyler?
I think the fans are thankful. Not to me specifically, but to DONTNOD and Xbox. They created a safe place for a young trans kid to be trans for a few hours. Tyler has become a friend and a brother to so many. Including the allies of the trans community. A lot of people who aren’t LGBTQ+ have reached out to me as well, telling me that Tyler opened their eyes to the trans experience. Personally, I believe it’s the human nature of this game that plays a huge role in why it has had such a positive effect.
This was your first voice over acting role, how did you find it?
I loved it! I know I said that before but voice over is pure fun. When I was recording, most days I couldn’t believe I got to do this as a job. Which brings us to our next question.
Will you be looking for other voice roles from now on?
Yes! I am currently looking and auditioning for roles. My dream would get into an animation, or even anime! My girlfriend has been trying to get me to watch anime for years and when I started voice-over Erica recommended I start watching it too. Quarantine gave me a lot of time to catch up and I am hooked. I can’t wait to further dive into the world of VO and the new characters that come along with it.
It’s hard to deny that August Black has had a pivotal role in creating a trans character that’s well-loved among gamers, but now we’re excited to see where he’ll go in the future. To keep up to date with his work, you’re able to follow August on Twitter.
And, if you haven’t yet had the chance to give this emotional rollercoaster of a game a go, you’ll be pleased to know that Tell Me Why’s first episode is now available to play – for free – on Xbox and PC.
Photo credit: Jo Valerio
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