In a significant shift for Nintendo's iconic character lineup, 2023 marked the transition of Charles Martinet from the voice of Mario and Luigi to the role of a "Mario Ambassador." This change opened the door for Kevin Afghani to step in as the new voice behind these beloved characters.
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Charles Martinet Moves to Ambassador Role
Martinet's move to an ambassadorial role ended his long-standing tenure as the voice behind Mario, Luigi, Wario, and even Waluigi, where he voiced them for decades. To put things in perspective, Martinet's work with Nintendo spans back to the retro days of Super Mario 64 (1996), where fans were riddled with his pronunciation of "So Long, Kinga Bowser". I'm glad we finally have an answer to that one!
His exceptional work had become synonymous with Nintendo's brand, making his departure a notable moment in the company's history.
Kevin Afghani Fills the Shoes
Kevin Afghani's introduction as the new voice of Mario and Luigi was met with considerable anticipation. He made his debut in Super Mario Bros. Wonder, voicing Mario and Luigi, and as Wario in WarioWare: Move It! His portrayal of these characters received a warm reception from fans, setting a promising tone for his future with Nintendo.
Reflecting on his new position, Afghani expressed amazement at his surreal journey to becoming the voice of some of the most iconic characters in the gaming world. His transition into this role has been seamless, indicating that he might be lending his voice to Nintendo's leading characters for many years to come.
Afghani's early performances hint at a fresh and unique take on Mario and Luigi, leaving fans and followers eager to experience his continued evolution in these roles. His work not only honors the legacy of Charles Martinet but also marks the beginning of a new era for Nintendo's character voices.
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