Arthur Morgan's signature, often debilitating, coughing fits in Red Dead Redemption 2 were not always entirely acted. Actor Roger Clark, the voice behind the complex cowboy protagonist, shared that some of these vocal performances were captured during periods when he was actually sick.
During an interview regarding the development of Arthur Morgan's character, Clark explained that the taxing nature of these coughing scenes was mitigated by the game's lengthy development and recording schedule. "If ever there was a really bad coughing scene, we'd always save it for the end of the day," Clark stated, noting that spreading the recordings over five years meant that genuine bouts of illness could be incorporated. "There was a lot of data we got that was pretty damn genuine," he added, even recalling instances where he actively sought to record while unwell, telling the team, "Hey, I've got a cold, let me get in there."
The persistent illness that affects Arthur Morgan becomes a significant narrative element in Red Dead Redemption 2. Early in the game, after a violent encounter, Arthur contracts tuberculosis. This diagnosis marks a turning point for the character, influencing his interactions and the player's ability to guide him toward redemption. The progression of his sickness, from subtle coughs to more severe episodes, is central to the game's storytelling and its portrayal of mortality. The inclusion of actual sickness in the recording process lent a visceral authenticity to these critical moments, enhancing the player's connection to Arthur's struggles.