Importance and fame of voicing one of the most coveted characters in digital history do not always equal a guaranteed packed schedule, according to Briana White. One of the most impaired and touching performances of all time, White boldly described the professional hurdles bothering her career since playing the role of Aerith Gainsborough in Final Fantasy VII Rebirth. In the industry, where being visible gets erroneously mistaken for job security, she stated that she had auditioned for hundreds of projects after entering the Square Enix franchise without booking one other voice-acting role.
That gap between what fans think or perceive and what really is or happens has been a common hurdle for many actors. Players might assume that a leading role in a blockbuster trilogy opens every door in Los Angeles, but the audition grind is still there, said White. Surprise is common: fans and colleagues alike expect her to be juggled with several high-profile projects. Instead, she finds herself in the same slot as many journeyman actors, where even yesterday’s successes do not guarantee a contract for tomorrow.
Instead of riding the Final Fantasy wave, White goes deeper into technical training. She continues to attend acting classes and industry workshops—much to the surprise of casting directors who wonder why a recognizable lead is still “doing the work.” It is to avoid complacency. She is vocal about a desire to diversify her portfolio by seeking roles that broaden her range beyond the gentle, iconic flower girl of Sector 5.
The studio’s ongoing development of the concluding episode of the Remake trilogy would lead to White’s inevitable return to the voice booth, but her long-term future in the medium remains open. Her honesty forces home a sober reminder of the fate of talent in the mercurial gaming industry. For now, White focuses on craft and trusts the determination that landed her the role of Aerith will bring her to a next major chapter in interactive storytelling.
