Martinet Keeps Mario Voice, Avoids Improv for Authenticity

For nearly three decades, Charles Martinet has been the iconic voice behind Mario. He recently addressed fan concerns about his character performances during meet-and-greet events after social media buzz stemmed from his appearance at a convention.

Officially designated by Nintendo as a Mario Ambassador, Martinet remains famous for enthusiastically voicing Mario during fan interactions. Speculation arose after YouTuber Ricky Berwick suggested Nintendo had restricted Martinet's performances – until the voice actor himself clarified the situation.

Following Martinet's appearance at Phoenix Fan Fusion 2025 in Arizona, Berwick – boasting 6.25 million YouTube subscribers and 14.1 million on TikTok – claimed the legendary voice actor "wasn't permitted to perform Mario's voice or any of his classic characters" during the event, calling it "disappointing."

The controversy gained traction online, coinciding with news that Samantha Kelly – Martinet's former Mushroom Kingdom colleague – had been replaced as Princess Peach and Toad's voice actress.

While Nintendo retired Martinet from official voice acting duties in 2022, they honored him with a farewell video featuring Mario creator Shigeru Miyamoto and pledged his continued involvement as Mario Ambassador. Martinet admitted uncertainty about the role's specifics but has maintained an active convention schedule.

Martinet clarified that Berwick's post referenced his policy against improvising original dialogue for Nintendo characters (including Mario, Luigi, Wario, and others he previously voiced).

"Ricky, I always voice Mario for fans," Martinet responded. "I simply avoid improvising non-canonical dialogue."

He explained this personal decision stems from protecting Nintendo's character integrity, ensuring voices remain consistent with established game dialogue.

"It's my choice to preserve authenticity," Martinet added. "Visit any convention and you'll hear Mario's voice loud and clear! #woohoo"

Currently, Kevin Afghani voices Mario in Nintendo games, while Chris Pratt portrays the character in Hollywood's Super Mario Bros. Movie franchise.