The wait for who will take over voicing Nintendo’s favorite plumber Mario is finally over. Voice performer Charles Martinet is stepping down from voicing the Princess-saving face of Nintendo after 29 years. A successor has finally been revealed as Kevin Afghani is taking over as Mario and Luigi.
Afghani already has completed his first project voicing the brothers in “Super Mario Bros. Wonder,” which hits shelves soon. He announced the role in a post to his X account, thanking Nintendo for the opportunity. Afghani’s voice acting career is still relatively fresh, with experience voicing in several animated shorts and 2020’s “Genshin Impact.” This is definitely his most high profile job to date.
Martinet voiced Mario from 1991 until August of 2023. It is unclear if Afghani will continue voicing either brother on a permanent basis going forward. Nintendo appears to favor consistency, so we wouldn’t be surprised if Afghani does keep the job long term.
“The Super Mario Bros. Movie” starred Chris Pratt (“Guardians of the Galaxy“) as the voice of Mario. While the movie was a box office hit, grossing over $1.36 billion, many fans were disappointed in Pratt’s interpretation. It was highly unlikely that Pratt would be taking over the role, but he does still get credit. It is unknown if he will reprise the “big screen” voice of Mario for the sequel.
“Super Mario Bros. Wonder” is going to be released for the Nintendo Switch on October 20th, 2023. “Mario and friends have been invited to visit the colorful Flower Kingdom, just a short hop away from the Mushroom Kingdom, Unfortunately, King Bowser has transformed into a flying castle and is causing chaos across their peaceful land. Now our heroes must say the say – and the Flower Kingdom – in this wonderous new adventure,” the official synopsis reads.
We can’t wait to hear Afghani saving the day! Wahoo!
