In recent weeks, there's been plenty of intrigue surrounding the question of who would be taking over the iconic voice of Mario, following Charles Martinet's departure from the role. As the dust settles, we can now confirm that Chris Pratt, after voicing the iconic Italian plumber in The Super Mario Bros. Movie, isn't the new voice of Mario. The honor goes to Kevin Afghani, a name that might be unfamiliar to some, but is poised to become synonymous with Nintendo's beloved plumber.
Kevin Afghani made the announcement on X (previously known as Twitter) stating, "Incredibly proud to have voiced Mario and Luigi in Super Mario Bros. Wonder. Thanks to Nintendo for inviting me into the Flower Kingdom!" Afghani's reveal was shortly after followed by a confirmation from Nintendo, who simply stated, "The voice actor's name is Kevin Afghani.
The internet has spent months trying to piece together clues and voicing their theories about the individual that would inherit the iconic role. Some had even looked into datamined lists from a supposed hacked kiosk demo of the game, which led to the belief that Mick Wingert, another actor, would be the voice of Mario. But Wingert later cleared the air, asserting that while he might be involved in Super Mario Bros. Wonder, he was not voicing Mario.
Charles Martinet's departure from the role he had held since 1994 was a poignant moment for fans. Martinet, who had began as the voice of Mario in "Mario Teaches Typing", had become an intrinsic part of Mario's identity. His cheerful "wahoos" and "it's-a-me" became catchphrases that resonated across generations of gamers. But as he transitions into a new role as a "Mario ambassador", he leaves big shoes (or perhaps, boots) to fill.
