This year has brought significant changes in the portrayal of Nintendo’s iconic mustached and denim-clad figure, Mario. The renowned video game character leaped onto the silver screen with “The Super Mario Bros. Movie,” becoming the highest-grossing film at the U.S. box office in 2023. Yet, this cinematic journey saw a transition, as Chris Pratt lent his voice to the titular hero instead of the character’s longtime video game voice artist, Charles Martinet.
In a recent announcement, Nintendo formally declared Martinet’s retirement from voicing the beloved plumber. The gaming giant revealed that Martinet will adopt a fresh role as the “Mario Ambassador.” Nintendo’s statement acknowledges Martinet’s extensive tenure as Mario’s original voice, dating back to “Super Mario 64.” Although Martinet is stepping back from providing character voices in game recordings, he will persist in traversing the globe, sharing the joy of Mario and engaging with fans.
Martinet expressed his excitement for this new chapter by posting the statement on his Twitter account, affirming, “My new Adventure begins! You are all Numba One in my heart! #woohoo!!!!!!!” Martinet’s signature exclamation of “woohoo” has become emblematic, while the successful movie may establish Chris Pratt’s voice as the modern auditory representation of the iconic plumber. It remains uncertain whether Pratt will also contribute his voice to upcoming games featuring the character.