In a bittersweet announcement, Nintendo shared that the legendary Charles Martinet will no longer provide the voice for the company’s mascot, Super Mario. Martinet has voiced the cheerful Italian plumber since 1991 and defined Mario’s voice for generations of fans. After nearly 30 years in the role, Martinet is passing the torch to a new yet-to-be-announced voice actor. It marks the end of an era as one of the most recognizable voices in video game history moves on. In this article, we will look at all the details of why is Super Mario voice actor Charles Martinet retiring and who might be the possible replacement.
Why Did Charles Martinet Decide to Retire as Mario After Such a Long Run?
We have a message for fans of the Mushroom Kingdom. Please take a look. pic.twitter.com/U1ASicOuTO
— Nintendo of America (@NintendoAmerica) August 21, 2023
After voicing Mario for nearly 30 years, Charles Martinet has decided to retire from the role. Martinet began voicing the iconic Nintendo character in 1991 and continued throughout dozens of games.
- Some speculate that at age 67, Martinet may have felt it was simply time to pass the torch. The intensive voice work required may have become more challenging with age.
- However, Martinet has not cited any specific reasons for stepping down. Nintendo has simply stated he is retiring from voice duties while taking on a new ambassador role.
- Martinet has expressed nothing but joy over the years when discussing his time as Mario. It seems likely he still has love for the character, but feels ready to move on to new endeavors befitting his vocal talent.
Whatever his reasons, Martinet’s retirement marks the end of an incredible era portraying one of gaming’s most beloved icons. His voice work helped shape Mario into the cheerful, lively character adored by millions.
Looking Back at Martinet’s Legacy as Mario
For many Mario devotees, Martinet was the definitive voice of the mustachioed hero. His spirited voice acting matched Mario’s upbeat, lively personality to a tee. Martinet’s Italian-accented lines like “It’s-a-me, Mario!” and his signature exclamations of “Woohoo!” became intrinsically tied to the character.
Over his extensive tenure, Martinet voiced Mario, his brother Luigi, their infant selves, and other Nintendo staples like Wario and Waluigi in countless titles. He holds the world record for voicing the same video game role, highlighting his unmatched association with Mario.
In past interviews, Martinet shared his joy and honor in giving voice to the legendary mascot. While he never expected such a long run, he hoped Mario would live on after him. Martinet clearly had a deep connection to the iconic role that defined his prolific career.
Charles Martinet Possible Replacement: Big Red Shoes to Fill as Mario’s Voice
Charles Martinet did a phenomenal job over the past several decades and the next voice actor has some big shoes to fill! pic.twitter.com/4zDOOXLTVB
— Bring Back Banjo (@BringBackBanjoK) August 21, 2023
With Martinet stepping down, Nintendo now faces the monumental task of finding a worthy successor. The company has not yet indicated who will take over the prestigious role as Mario’s new voice.
Some speculate Chris Pratt, who voiced Mario in the 2022 animated Super Mario Bros. film, could reprise the role in upcoming games. However, Pratt’s portrayal faced criticism that his voice lacked Mario’s trademark Italian flair.
Whoever inherits the part has massive shoes to fill after Martinet’s long history with the cherished character. It will represent a major shift for fans to hear a new voice for the celebrated plumber. Nintendo will likely explore many options to find the perfect fit.
Martinet Remains Connected to Mario as an Ambassador
While no longer the voice, Charles Martinet will still represent Mario in a new capacity as a “Mario ambassador.” Nintendo stated he’ll make public appearances at events worldwide to help share Mario with fans.
This allows Martinet to maintain his connection with the beloved mascot he helped define while passing on voice duties. Martinet expressed excitement for his new adventure as an ambassador in a tweet thanking fans.
A Fond Farewell to an Unforgettable Voice
Charles Martinet retiring as the voice of Mario concludes a cherished chapter in video game history. His stellar voice work brought Mario to life in a way that resonated with multiple generations. Though he’ll still be a Mario representative, Martinet stepping down marks the bittersweet end to an unforgettable era.
The next performer has massive shoes to fill as the new voice of the legendary mascot. But Martinet’s legacy as the definitive Mario voice for countless fans remains set in stone. He became an integral part of the Mario magic in a way that transcended games alone.
The last voice line Charles Martinet may have in a professional role as he steps into the role as Nintendo Ambassador, is as Mario and Luigi's father, proudly proclaiming "THESE ARE MY BOYS!"
I'm not crying, you're crying. pic.twitter.com/XkKLhMCLkM
— TRAFON(s Backup Account) (@RiseFallNickBck) August 21, 2023
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