Charles Martinet retires as Mario's voice actor. Learn more about his next role, what it means for future Mario games, when this was announced, and more.
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Original Mario Voice Actor Steps Back From Voicing Nintendo Characters
Will Not Be Involved in Super Mario Bros Wonder
For decades, one man has been associated as the voice of Mario, the beloved plumber from Nintendo's legendary franchise: Charles Martinet. Martinet's voice has provided joy to gamers worldwide, ever since he gave us the iconic line, It's-a me, Mario!
On August 21, 2023, Nintendo announced via Twitter that Charles Martinet, Mario's original voice since Super Mario 64, will no longer be recording character voices for Nintendo games. But do not worry—Martinet's Mario adventure is not over yet. As a Mario Ambassador, he will carry on promoting the Mario series and communicating with fans all across the world.
The news came as a bittersweet moment for fans who have grown up with Martinet's iconic portrayal of Mario. In a sincere statement, Nintendo thanked Charles Martinet for his exceptional contribution to the gaming world. He voiced Mario and many other characters in the series, like Luigi, Wario, Waluigi, and countless more, since 1991.
Charles Martinet As Mario Ambassador
Even though Charles Martinet is retiring as Mario's voice in Nintendo games, it does not mean Mario himself will be retiring.
Although Nintendo has not yet stated who will voice Mario in future games, they have guaranteed fans that Martinet's legacy will carry on in another form.
Instead of hanging up his Mario cap, Charles Martinet embarks on a new adventure as a Mario Ambassador. In this capacity, he will travel the world, bringing the fun and wonder of the Mario universe to fans of all ages.
A Special Message from Shigeru Miyamoto and Charles Martinet
To mark this changeover, Nintendo has promised a special video message with Charles Martinet and Shigeru Miyamoto. While the specifics of this message are still unknown, those who have grown up with Mario should expect an emotional trip filled with nostalgia.
Super Mario Bros. Wonder: A New Adventure Beckons
Nintendo plans to release Super Mario Bros. Wonder
on the Nintendo Switch on October 20, 2023 the first new 2D Mario adventure in almost a decade. It promises to be an exciting addition to the Mario franchise. Although Charles Martinet will not be contributing his voice to this new adventure, the spirit of Mario is sure to come through.
