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Nintendo fans worldwide are in for a change that has been years in the making. Charles Martinet, the beloved voice actor behind the iconic character Mario since 1991, is officially stepping back from his role as Mario’s voice actor. However, fans need not despair, as Martinet will continue his journey with Nintendo in a new capacity – as a “Mario Ambassador.”
Nintendo made this momentous announcement via their official Twitter account on August 21, 2023, assuring fans that a special video message from the legendary game designer, Shigeru Miyamoto, and Charles Martinet himself, will be forthcoming.
A Fond Farewell to the Voice of Mario
In their tweet, Nintendo reminisced about Martinet’s illustrious career as the voice of Mario, which began with the groundbreaking “Super Mario 64.” After more than three decades of lending his voice to not only Mario but also Luigi, Wario, Waluigi, and a host of other characters in the Mario universe, Martinet has chosen to embrace a new chapter in his association with Nintendo.
The statement from Nintendo read: “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!”
The Man Behind the Mustache
Charles Martinet’s journey as Mario’s voice actor began in an unconventional manner. He won the role at an audition during a tradeshow where he was asked to “talk to people as a plumber.” This initial opportunity paved the way for a storied career as the voice of one of the most iconic characters in video game history.
His first video game appearance as Mario was in 1994’s “Mario Teaches Typing.” However, it was his portrayal in the groundbreaking “Super Mario 64” in 1996 that truly endeared him to fans worldwide. Over the years, he went on to voice various iterations of Mario and related characters, including Luigi, Wario, Waluigi, Metal Mario, Shadow Mario, Baby Mario, and many more.
Martinet himself responded to Nintendo’s announcement with enthusiasm, stating in a tweet, “My new adventure begins! You are all Numba One in my heart! #woohoo !!!!!!!”
Back in 2021, Martinet expressed his desire to “voice Mario until I drop dead.” While his tenure as the official voice of Mario may be ending, fans can take solace in knowing that his infectious enthusiasm and iconic voice will continue to bring joy and happiness to Mario enthusiasts around the world in his new role as a “Mario Ambassador.”
As Charles Martinet takes a step back from the recording booth, fans eagerly anticipate what the future holds for the world of Mario and the exciting adventures that await with the franchise’s enduring legacy.
gfpods.com 
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