The recent transition of the iconic Mario voice role from veteran Charles Martinet to newcomer Kevin Afghani marks a significant moment in gaming history. This article delves into Afghani's profound respect for Martinet's legacy, his feelings about stepping into such a celebrated role, and his eagerly anticipated first public interaction with fans.
Embracing the Legacy: A New Era for Mario's Voice
Kevin Afghani's Debut Fan Interaction and Reflections on the Iconic Role
Kevin Afghani, the fresh voice behind the beloved Super Mario character, is gearing up for his inaugural fan appearance this weekend at Charlie's ComicCon in Estero, Florida. This event marks a significant milestone, allowing fans to connect with the actor who has taken on such a pivotal role in the gaming world. Ahead of his public debut, Afghani sat down with USA Today to discuss various aspects of his new venture, including his personal history with Nintendo games, the weight of voicing the world's most recognizable plumber, and the unique experience of succeeding Charles Martinet, who had defined the character's voice for decades.
Acknowledging the Predecessor: Afghani's Deep Respect for Charles Martinet
During his interview, Afghani was directly asked about any apprehension he might have felt in assuming a role so deeply associated with Martinet. He unequivocally affirmed his nervousness, articulating immense praise for his predecessor. Afghani emphasized that Charles Martinet is, in his eyes, synonymous with Mario, highlighting Martinet's masterful creation of an iconic character. He stated that any lack of nervousness would indicate his unsuitability for the role, firmly positioning Martinet as "THE guy" who originally brought Mario to life, underscoring his profound respect for the legacy he is now part of.
Martinet's Enduring Influence and Afghani's Clarifications
Afghani's heartfelt tribute to Martinet was met with appreciation, reflecting the general sentiment toward the veteran voice actor. Charles Martinet now serves as the official brand ambassador for the Mario series, continuing to engage with fans at various events and share stories from his illustrious career. Furthermore, Afghani took the opportunity to dispel circulating rumors suggesting his prior involvement as a narrator in Nintendo Direct presentations, clarifying that his first engagement with Nintendo was directly through his role as Mario.
