Charles Martinet, the voice of Nintendo’s beloved Mario character, steps down

A file photo of an ad featuring the Nintendo character Mario at Narita airport in Narita near Tokyo on June 10, 2022. Martinet, the voice of Mario in Nintendo games since the 1990s, is stepping down, Nintendo of America confirmed on Aug 21. — AP

REDMOND, Washington: Charles Martinet, the original voice of Mario in Nintendo games since the 1990s, is stepping down.

Nintendo of America confirmed Monday that Martinet will now serve in the role of "Mario Ambassador," traveling around the world to promote the beloved plumber, signing autographs and performing Nintendo character voices.