Charles Martinet, Voice of Mario, Steps down after 30 years

Nintendo announced today that after 30 years of voicing the character of Mario, Charles Martinet is stepping down. Martinet is as beloved as this most famous character he voices and is a fan favorite, especially in the Nintendo community so this is sad news indeed. The bright side is Martinet will continue working with Nintendo as a “Mario Ambassador” which will see him still engage in the community and provide voices for the fans.

Nintendo confirmed Martinet will not be voicing Mario in Super Mario Wonder, and stated… “It’s been a privilege working with Charles to help bring Mario to life for so many years and we want to thank and celebrate him,”

Martinet was once quoted saying he wanted to play Mario until he was dead, but also added “If someday I think I am no longer capable of doing it, I will tell Nintendo to look into finding someone else.” All we can hope is that Charles is in good health, and he’s stepping into a new adventure.

Thank you Charles Martinet, us Nintendo fans are so grateful for you.