Nintendo has officially announced a significant change in the role of Charles Martinet, the iconic voice behind Mario since 1991. The company has confirmed that Martinet will be taking a step back from recording character voices for Nintendo games, transitioning into the role of a “Mario Ambassador.”
In a recent Twitter/X post, Nintendo revealed the news and hinted at an upcoming special video message from Shigeru Miyamoto and Martinet. The post stated, “Charles Martinet has been the original voice of Mario in Nintendo games for a long time, as far back as Super Mario 64. Charles is now moving into the brand-new role of Mario Ambassador. With this transition, he will be stepping back from recording character voices for our games, but he’ll continue to travel the world sharing the joy of Mario and interacting with you all!”
Expressing gratitude for their collaboration, Nintendo acknowledged Martinet’s remarkable contribution to the Mario franchise and its fans over the years. The company also teased an upcoming video message that will feature both Shigeru Miyamoto and Charles Martinet, further adding to the anticipation surrounding this announcement.
Martinet himself responded to Nintendo’s post with enthusiasm, stating, “My new adventure begins! You are all Numba One in my heart! #woohoo !!!!!!”
Martinet’s journey as the voice of Mario began unexpectedly when he auditioned for the role after a friend informed him about an audition at a tradeshow where he would be “talking to people as a plumber.” Successfully winning the role, Martinet first voiced Mario at tradeshows, introducing attendees to a 3D version of the beloved character capable of interaction.
His initial video game appearance as Mario was in 1994’s “Mario Teaches Typing,” but it was 1996’s “Super Mario 64” that catapulted him into widespread recognition and affection. Martinet’s vocal talents extended beyond Mario to encompass other beloved characters within the Nintendo universe, including Luigi, Wario, Waluigi, Metal Mario, Shadow Mario, and even Baby Mario.
As the curtain closes on one chapter of his career, Charles Martinet’s legacy as the voice of Mario remains an integral part of gaming history. Nintendo’s decision to appoint him as a Mario Ambassador ensures that his enduring connection with fans will continue to thrive.
