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Why is Charles Martinet not voicing Mario anymore? Fans speculate Chris Pratt takeover as voice actor steps down from iconic role

Charles Martinet also voiced Luigi, Mario's sidekick and brother, along with the mischievous duo Wario and Waluigi

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: The gaming community is abuzz with rumors surrounding the potential permanent replacement of Charles Martinet, the longtime voice actor behind 'Super Mario'. It is speculated that Chris Pratt might take over the role.

This comes in light of Martinet's recent retirement announcement, which was shared by Nintendo of America on Monday, August 21. 

Martinet, who has lent his voice to the beloved animated plumbing siblings Mario and Luigi since 1991, has decided to take a step back from his voice-acting duties.

As fans reacted to this surprising news, many began to wonder if Chris, who has been at the center of a casting controversy for his role as Mario in the 2023 film 'The Super Mario Bros. Movie', might be Martinet's successor.

While it's as yet unclear who will actually take over the reins, Nintendo's announcement hinted at a special video message to come, featuring both the 'Super Mario' creator, Shigeru Miyamoto, and Martinet himself.

The statement started by acknowledging Martinet's longstanding contribution: "Charles Martinet has been the original voice of Mario in Nintendo games for a long time, as far back as Super Mario 64."

It then elaborated on his evolving role, noting, "Charles is now moving into the brand-new role of Mario Ambassador... 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. It has been an honor working with Charles to help bring Mario to life for so many years and we want to thank and celebrate him," the statement expressed.

The anticipation is growing as fans await the forthcoming video message from Martinet and Miyamoto, the Japanese video game designer responsible for creating the best-selling Nintendo franchise.

Martinet himself shared the news on his official account, expressing gratitude to his fans and hinting at new adventures ahead. "My new Adventure begins! You are all Numba One in my heart!" he shared.

Has Charles Martinet always voiced Mario?

Having lent his voice to nearly 150 Nintendo titles since 1991, Martinet has made Mario's voice synonymous with the character itself, recording a plethora of iconic catchphrases. He also voiced Luigi, Mario's sidekick and brother, along with the mischievous duo Wario and Waluigi.

In recent times, Martinet even made a cameo appearance in the star-studded animated film featuring Chris as Mario, Anya-Taylor Joy as Princess Peach, and Jack Black as Bowser. Chris' casting choice stirred mixed reactions initially, but his performance won over fans eventually, raising the question of whether he could become the permanent voice behind Mario.

'Bring in Chris Pratt'

Internet users conveyed their gratitude to Martinet, recognizing his years of commitment to the gaming world, all while speculating about the possibility of Chris Pratt assuming the vocal role next.

One user tweeted, "Theres only one man who can take his place…" Another added, "End of an era." A third tweeted, "Chris Pratt incoming."

"Without a doubt, one of the most iconic voices in video games. Grew up playing Super a Mario 64," read a tweet. "Bring in Chris Pratt," chimed in another.