Here’s Mario’s new voice actor

After months of anticipation, Mario fans can finally put their speculation to rest – the new voice actor for the iconic plumber has been revealed! Kevin Afghani announced on X (formerly Twitter) that he is the voice behind Mario and Luigi in the upcoming Super Mario Bros. Wonder game. Nintendo confirmed this news in an email, ending the mystery surrounding who would replace longtime voice actor Charles Martinet. While Afghani may not have an extensive IMDb page, fans can get a taste of his Mario and Luigi voices in a recent promotional video from Nintendo. Super Mario Bros. Wonder is set to launch on the Nintendo Switch on October 20th, and fans are excited to hear Afghani bring their beloved characters to life.

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Background on Mario’s Voice Actor Change

Announcement of Kevin Afghani as the new voice actor

After months of speculation and anticipation, it has been officially revealed that Kevin Afghani will be taking over the iconic role of voicing Mario and Luigi in the upcoming game Super Mario Bros. Wonder. The announcement was made by Afghani himself on social media, where he expressed his pride and gratitude for being a part of the Mario franchise. Fans were thrilled to finally have a name to associate with the new voice of their beloved plumber.

Confirmation from Nintendo

Nintendo, the company behind the Mario games, also confirmed the news in an email statement. They simply stated that the new voice actor’s name is Kevin Afghani. While fans were already excited about the announcement, this confirmation from Nintendo added an extra layer of legitimacy and excitement to the news.

Speculation and rumors before the announcement

Before the official announcement, there was a lot of speculation and rumors surrounding the new voice actor for Mario. With Charles Martinet stepping away from the role after voicing Mario for over 25 years, fans were curious to see who would be taking on the iconic character. Many names were thrown around, fueling anticipation and excitement among the Mario fan community. However, the actual identity of the new voice actor remained a mystery until the announcement was made.

Kevin Afghani’s Background

Limited experience in voice acting

While Kevin Afghani may be relatively new to the world of voice acting, his talent and versatility have already made an impact. Despite having a limited number of credits to his name, Afghani has showcased his skills in various projects and demonstrated his ability to bring characters to life through his voice.

Previous roles in Dragon Ball R&R and Genshin Impact

Before joining the Mario franchise, Afghani had notable roles in popular shows such as Dragon Ball R&R and Genshin Impact. These roles allowed him to showcase his voice acting abilities and gain recognition among fans of those respective franchises.

Minor role in Anime Penguin: Red Snow

Afghani also had a minor role in the show Anime Penguin: Red Snow. While this may not be a widely known project, it demonstrates his commitment to his craft and his willingness to explore different roles and genres.

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Voices of Mario and Luigi in Super Mario Bros. Wonder

Promo video showcasing Afghani’s voices

Nintendo recently released a promotional video for Super Mario Bros. Wonder, which provided fans with a glimpse of Afghani’s portrayal of Mario and Luigi. The video showcased Afghani’s talent and his ability to capture the essence of these beloved characters. Fans were eager to see how his voices compared to Charles Martinet’s iconic portrayals.

Comparison to Charles Martinet’s portrayal

Charles Martinet’s portrayal of Mario and Luigi has become synonymous with the characters themselves. His unique voice and delivery have shaped the way fans perceive and connect with these iconic video game characters. With the introduction of a new voice actor, fans were curious to see how Afghani’s portrayal would measure up and whether he would be able to capture the same charm and personality that Martinet brought to the characters.

Release date of Super Mario Bros. Wonder

Super Mario Bros. Wonder is set to be released on the Nintendo Switch on October 20th. Fans are eagerly anticipating the game’s release, not only to experience the gameplay but also to hear Afghani’s portrayal of Mario and Luigi in their full context within the game.

Reactions to the New Voice Actor

Comments and opinions from fans

Upon the announcement of Kevin Afghani as the new voice actor for Mario and Luigi, fans took to social media to share their thoughts and opinions. The overall sentiment was one of excitement and curiosity mixed with a touch of nostalgia for Charles Martinet’s iconic portrayal. Many fans expressed their support for Afghani and their eagerness to hear how he would bring the characters to life.

Impact on the gaming community

The Mario franchise holds a special place in the hearts of many gamers around the world. The characters, including Mario and Luigi, have become cultural icons, and their voices play a significant role in shaping their identities. The introduction of a new voice actor has sparked conversations and discussions within the gaming community, further highlighting the impact and significance of Mario’s voice.

Importance of Mario’s voice to the franchise

Mario’s voice is an integral part of his character and the overall Mario franchise. Fans have come to associate a specific voice and tone with Mario and Luigi, thanks to Charles Martinet’s portrayal. The voice adds depth and personality to the characters, making them feel more relatable and endearing. As such, the change in voice actor carries weight and has the potential to shape the future of the franchise.

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Nintendo’s Decision to Replace Charles Martinet

Martinet becoming a Mario ambassador

Charles Martinet’s departure as the voice actor for Mario came as he transitioned into the role of a Mario ambassador. After spending over 25 years bringing the character to life, Martinet was ready to explore new avenues while still remaining connected to the franchise that defined his career.

Factors influencing the change

While the decision to replace Charles Martinet was undoubtedly a difficult one, it was likely influenced by several factors. One such factor is the desire to bring a fresh perspective to the characters, ensuring that they continue to resonate with both longtime fans and new generations of players. Additionally, the change may have been driven by creative decisions within Nintendo to evolve and adapt the Mario franchise.

Potential benefits of a new voice actor

The introduction of a new voice actor presents several potential benefits for the Mario franchise. It provides an opportunity to breathe new life into the characters, allowing them to evolve and grow as the games continue to progress. It also allows for new interpretations and nuances in the portrayal of Mario and Luigi, giving fans a fresh perspective on these beloved characters.

Controversy and Criticism

Reaction to the change on social media

As with any significant change, the introduction of a new voice actor for Mario and Luigi sparked a range of reactions on social media. While the majority of fans expressed excitement and support for Kevin Afghani, there were also some who voiced their disappointment or skepticism. Change can be met with resistance, especially when it involves an iconic and beloved character like Mario.

Comparison to previous voice actors

Charles Martinet’s portrayal of Mario has become deeply ingrained in the minds of fans. His voice acting has become synonymous with the character and has left an indelible mark on the franchise. As such, any new voice actor would naturally invite comparisons to Martinet’s iconic portrayal. Some fans may find it challenging to adjust to a different voice, and this sentiment has been reflected in the online conversations surrounding the change.

Concerns about the impact on Mario’s character

Mario’s voice is closely tied to his character’s personality and identity. Fans have grown accustomed to Charles Martinet’s portrayal and have come to associate his voice with the character’s joyful, adventurous spirit. With the change in voice actor, there are concerns that Mario’s essence may be altered or lost. However, it is important to remember that the new voice actor will bring their unique interpretation, which may present an opportunity to explore different facets of Mario’s character.

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Other Voice Actors Considered

Rumors and speculation about potential actors

Before the official announcement, rumors and speculation ran rampant regarding which actor would take on the role of Mario. The Mario fan community buzzed with excitement as various names were thrown into the mix, with fans eagerly discussing and speculating who could bring the character to life in the same way Charles Martinet did.

Mick Wingert’s denial of involvement

One popular rumor suggested that Mick Wingert would step into the role of Mario. However, Wingert himself denied these rumors, putting an end to the speculation and leaving fans to continue their anticipation for the official announcement.

Datamined voice talent in the game

A demo version of Super Mario Bros. Wonder was datamined, revealing the voice talent involved in the game. While Afghani’s name was not explicitly mentioned in the datamine, his name appeared at the top of the list when sorted alphabetically by last name. This provided a strong hint about his involvement, adding to the excitement and anticipation among fans.

The Legacy of Charles Martinet

Martinet’s contributions to the Mario franchise

Charles Martinet’s portrayal of Mario has left an indelible mark on the Mario franchise. For over 25 years, his distinctive voice and infectious enthusiasm brought the character to life and endeared him to fans around the world. Martinet’s contributions extend beyond just voicing Mario, as he also provided the voice for other beloved characters such as Luigi, Wario, and Waluigi. His dedication and talent have played a significant role in shaping the Mario franchise as we know it today.

Recognition and fan appreciation

Martinet’s portrayal of Mario has garnered widespread recognition and appreciation from both fans and the industry alike. His work has received numerous accolades, including awards for his voice acting performances. Fans have expressed their gratitude for his contributions and the joy he has brought to their gaming experiences.

Future roles and projects for Martinet

While Charles Martinet may have stepped away from the role of Mario, his connection to the franchise and the gaming community remains strong. As a Mario ambassador, Martinet will continue to make appearances and engage with fans, ensuring that his impact on the franchise is felt for years to come. Additionally, he may pursue other voice acting opportunities and explore new projects, further showcasing his versatility and talent.

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The Evolution of Mario’s Voice

Changes in the portrayal of Mario over the years

Throughout the history of the Mario franchise, Mario’s voice has evolved alongside advancements in technology and changes in the industry. From the early days of silent protagonists to the introduction of voice acting, Mario’s voice has undergone several transformations. Charles Martinet’s portrayal became the defining voice for the character, shaping the way fans perceive and interact with Mario.

The role of voice acting in video games

Voice acting has become an integral part of modern video games, allowing developers to bring characters to life and create more immersive storytelling experiences. Mario’s voice, in particular, has played a significant role in enhancing the narrative and engaging players on a deeper level. The new voice actor, Kevin Afghani, will have the opportunity to contribute to this evolving craft and leave his mark on the Mario franchise.

Mario’s iconic catchphrases and lines

Over the years, Mario has become known for his iconic catchphrases and lines, many of which have been delivered by Charles Martinet. From the exuberant “It’s-a me, Mario!” to the adventurous “Let’s-a go!”, these catchphrases have become ingrained in popular culture and have added to the charm and appeal of the character. As Kevin Afghani takes on the role, fans will be listening closely to see how he delivers these timeless lines and whether he adds his own unique touch to them.

Conclusion

The announcement of Kevin Afghani as the new voice actor for Mario and Luigi in Super Mario Bros. Wonder has generated excitement and anticipation among fans. While the change in voice actor may come with some initial hesitations and concerns, it also presents an opportunity for the Mario franchise to evolve and explore new interpretations of these beloved characters. The legacy of Charles Martinet will always hold a special place in the hearts of fans, but the introduction of a new voice actor opens doors for growth and continued popularity for the Mario franchise. As Super Mario Bros. Wonder launches and fans hear Afghani’s portrayal in its entirety, they eagerly await the next chapter in Mario’s journey and the continued cultural impact of the franchise.

Source: https://www.theverge.com/2023/10/13/23916232/super-mario-bros-wonder-new-voice-kevin-afghani