Super Mario Voice Actor Charles Martinet Steps Back After 27 Years
Charles Martinet, the voice of iconic video game character Mario, is “stepping back” from the role after 27 years, Nintendo announced. Martinet, 67, has been the original voice of the Italian plumber since the 1996 installment Super Mario 64. He also provided voices for other beloved characters in the series, including Mario’s twin brother Luigi and the villainous Wario and Waluigi.
In a statement released on Twitter, Nintendo revealed that Martinet is transitioning into a brand-new role as Mario ambassador. While he will no longer be recording character voices for the games, he will continue to travel the world and share the joy of Mario with fans. The company expressed gratitude for Martinet’s contributions and teased a special video message from both Martinet and legendary game designer Shigeru Miyamoto in the future.
The announcement came after fans speculated online about Martinet’s potential replacement in the upcoming game Super Mario Bros Wonder. Some fans noticed a difference in the character’s voice in promotional videos, leading to speculation about a new voice actor. Nintendo confirmed that Martinet did not voice Mario in the new game but has not yet announced the replacement.
Martinet, who once said he wanted to voice Mario until he “drops dead,” based his portrayal of the character on Petruchio from Shakespeare’s Taming of the Shrew. Despite not voicing Mario in the 2023 animated film The Super Mario Bros Movie, Martinet did voice two minor characters, including the brothers’ father.
Aside from his work as Mario, Martinet has lent his voice to various other games, including The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim and Ratchet & Clank Future: A Crack In Time. His distinct voice and enthusiastic portrayal of Mario have endeared him to fans around the world.
As Martinet takes on his new role as Mario ambassador, fans eagerly await the announcement of the new voice actor who will bring the beloved character to life in future games.