Charles Martinet: From Voice Actor To Nintendo Icon + Wife!

Joe Adams 31 May 2025

Ever wondered who breathed life into the world's most beloved plumber? Charles Martinet isn't just a voice actor; he's the embodiment of Mario, Luigi, and a whole cast of characters that have defined childhoods and gaming experiences for generations. His journey from a stage actor to the voice of Nintendo's biggest stars is a tale of serendipity, talent, and the magic of believing in the impossible.

For over three decades, Charles Martinet has been synonymous with the Super Mario franchise. His energetic "It's-a me, Mario!" has become a global catchphrase, instantly recognizable and endlessly endearing. But Martinet's contribution extends far beyond a simple catchphrase. He has imbued Mario, Luigi, Wario, Waluigi, Baby Mario, Baby Luigi, and various bosses with distinct personalities, crafting a vocal landscape that is as vibrant and memorable as the games themselves. His performances aren't just voice acting; they are character acting at its finest, creating a palpable sense of joy, mischief, and heroism that resonates with players of all ages.

His journey, however, is more than just recording sessions and voice modulation. It’s a journey of dedication, understanding the nuances of each character, and evolving with the changing landscape of the gaming industry. He understands the emotional connection fans have with these characters and masterfully crafts his performances to deepen that connection.

Category	Information
Full Name	Charles Andre Martinet
Date of Birth	September 17, 1955
Birth Place	San Jose, California, United States
Nationality	American
Occupation	Actor, Voice Actor
Known For	Voice of Mario, Luigi, Wario, Waluigi in the Super Mario franchise
Years Active	1991 – 2023 (as Mario voice actor)
Spouse	Kimmy Robertson
Other notable Roles	Baby Mario, Baby Luigi, various bosses in the Super Mario games
Reference	Charles Martinet on IMDb

Born on September 17, 1955, in San Jose, California, Charles Andre Martinet's path to becoming the voice of Mario was far from predetermined. He didn't initially set out to conquer the world of video games. Instead, his early aspirations led him to the stage, where he honed his acting skills and developed a unique talent for improvisation. This theatrical background proved invaluable when he stumbled upon the opportunity that would define his career.

Before the red cap and overalls, Martinet was immersed in the world of theater. He studied at the American Conservatory Theater, refining his craft and developing a keen understanding of character development and performance. This foundation proved essential when he transitioned to voice acting, allowing him to imbue his characters with depth, nuance, and a captivating sense of personality.

The story of how Martinet landed the role of Mario is now a cherished piece of gaming lore. In 1991, he was at a trade show when he heard about an audition for a video game character. With only a few minutes to prepare, he improvised a voice and character based on the image of Mario. His spontaneous performance captivated the Nintendo representatives, and the rest, as they say, is history. This spontaneous audition not only secured him the role but also shaped the very essence of Mario's character, defining him for generations to come.

From that moment forward, Martinet's voice became the definitive sound of Mario. He brought a level of enthusiasm, humor, and warmth to the character that resonated with players worldwide. His performances weren't simply lines read from a script; they were genuine expressions of emotion, reflecting Mario's adventurous spirit, his unwavering optimism, and his infectious love of life. This ability to connect with audiences on an emotional level is what set Martinet apart and cemented his place in gaming history.

Martinet's impact on the Super Mario franchise extends far beyond the titular character. He masterfully portrays Luigi, Mario's often-underestimated but equally lovable brother. He also voices the mischievous Wario and the scheming Waluigi, adding layers of complexity and humor to the Mario universe. Each character is distinct and memorable, showcasing Martinet's versatility and range as a voice actor. His ability to seamlessly transition between these roles is a testament to his skill and dedication.

The duality of Mario and Luigi, often portrayed as the daring hero and the slightly timid sidekick, is masterfully captured in Martinet's vocal performances. He imbues Mario with a sense of unwavering confidence and courage, while Luigi is given a touch of vulnerability and endearing awkwardness. This contrast enhances the dynamic between the brothers and adds depth to their individual personalities.

Wario and Waluigi, on the other hand, are embodiments of mischief and mayhem. Martinet's portrayal of these characters is delightfully over-the-top, filled with exaggerated accents, villainous laughter, and a healthy dose of self-importance. These roles allow him to explore the darker, more comedic side of the Mario universe, providing a welcome contrast to the heroic antics of Mario and Luigi.

Beyond the main cast, Martinet has also voiced countless other characters in the Super Mario franchise, including Baby Mario, Baby Luigi, and various bosses. Each of these roles is approached with the same level of care and attention to detail, ensuring that every character, no matter how small, contributes to the richness and vibrancy of the Mario world. His commitment to bringing these characters to life is a testament to his passion for his craft.

Martinet's dedication to the Super Mario franchise has earned him widespread recognition and admiration. He has received numerous awards and accolades for his work, and he is a beloved figure among fans worldwide. His appearances at gaming conventions and events are always met with enthusiastic crowds, eager to meet the man behind the voice of their childhood heroes.

His interactions with fans are always genuine and heartfelt. He takes the time to connect with each individual, sharing stories, signing autographs, and creating lasting memories. This personal connection is a testament to his humility and his deep appreciation for the support he has received throughout his career.

Beyond his contributions to the Super Mario franchise, Charles Martinet has also lent his voice to other video games and animated projects. However, it is his role as Mario that has solidified his place in popular culture. He has become an icon, a symbol of joy, and a reminder that even the most ordinary person can become extraordinary with a little bit of imagination and a lot of heart.

His voice has become so deeply ingrained in the collective consciousness that it is almost impossible to imagine Mario sounding any other way. He has set the standard for video game voice acting, inspiring countless others to pursue their dreams and to believe in the power of their own voices.

The impact of Charles Martinet's work on the gaming industry cannot be overstated. He has not only brought to life some of the most iconic characters in video game history but has also helped to shape the very landscape of interactive entertainment. His performances have inspired countless gamers, artists, and developers, and his legacy will continue to resonate for generations to come.

The longevity of his career is a testament to his talent, his dedication, and his unwavering passion for his craft. He has adapted to the changing landscape of the gaming industry, embracing new technologies and platforms while remaining true to the core values that have made him a beloved figure among fans.

His commitment to excellence and his unwavering enthusiasm have made him a role model for aspiring voice actors and a true ambassador for the gaming community. He has proven that with hard work, dedication, and a genuine love for what you do, anything is possible.

Charles Martinet's journey is a testament to the power of dreams, the importance of believing in yourself, and the magic that can happen when talent meets opportunity. He is not just the voice of Mario; he is the heart and soul of a franchise that has captured the imaginations of millions worldwide. His legacy will continue to inspire and entertain for generations to come.

While Charles Martinet's voice will forever be linked to the Super Mario universe, his personal life also offers a glimpse into the man behind the microphone. He is married to Kimmy Robertson, a talented voice actress, businesswoman, and philanthropist. Together, they form a dynamic duo, each contributing their unique talents and passions to the world.

Kimmy Robertson is a successful voice actress in her own right, having lent her talents to a variety of animated films and television shows, including "Rugrats," "The Fairly OddParents," and "The Powerpuff Girls." Her versatility and skill have made her a sought-after voice actress in the animation industry.

Beyond her voice acting career, Robertson is also a savvy businesswoman and a dedicated philanthropist. She is involved in various charitable organizations, using her platform to raise awareness and support for important causes. Her commitment to giving back to the community is a testament to her character and her desire to make a positive impact on the world.

The partnership between Charles Martinet and Kimmy Robertson is a testament to their shared values, their mutual respect, and their unwavering support for each other's endeavors. They are a true power couple, inspiring others to pursue their dreams and to use their talents to make the world a better place.

As Charles Martinet steps away from voicing Mario after an incredible run from 1991 to 2023, his legacy is firmly etched in the annals of gaming history. His contributions extend beyond mere voice acting; he sculpted the very persona of Mario, making him a global icon and a beloved character for generations.

His departure marks the end of an era, but it also opens the door for new voices to emerge and to carry on the legacy that he has so masterfully created. The future of Mario is bright, and Martinet's influence will continue to be felt for years to come.

His iconic portrayals of Mario and Luigi, along with his memorable performances as Wario and Waluigi, have left an indelible mark on the gaming world. He has inspired countless gamers, artists, and developers, and his legacy will continue to resonate for generations to come.

Charles Martinet's impact on the Super Mario franchise is undeniable. He is a true icon, a symbol of joy, and a reminder that even the most ordinary person can become extraordinary with a little bit of imagination and a lot of heart. His voice will forever be synonymous with Mario, and his legacy will continue to inspire and entertain for generations to come.

His dedication to his craft, his unwavering enthusiasm, and his genuine love for the Super Mario franchise have made him a beloved figure among fans worldwide. He is a true ambassador for the gaming community, and his contributions will continue to be celebrated for years to come.

Charles Martinet, the name is synonymous with joy, laughter, and the boundless imagination of the Super Mario universe. He wasn't just a voice actor; he was the embodiment of Mario, Luigi, Wario, and Waluigi for millions of fans across the globe. His departure from the role after decades of service marks a significant moment in gaming history, leaving behind a legacy that will undoubtedly inspire and entertain for generations to come.

Martinet's journey began modestly, but his talent and dedication propelled him to become one of the most recognizable and beloved figures in the gaming world. His "It's-a me, Mario!" is more than just a catchphrase; it's a cultural touchstone, instantly recognizable and endlessly endearing. It's a testament to his ability to connect with audiences on an emotional level, to imbue his characters with warmth, humor, and a sense of genuine humanity.

From the heroic exploits of Mario to the timid adventures of Luigi, the mischievous schemes of Wario to the chaotic antics of Waluigi, Martinet brought each character to life with a distinct voice and personality. He wasn't simply reading lines from a script; he was creating characters, crafting their individual quirks, and bringing them to life in a way that resonated with players of all ages. It's a testament to his skill and dedication that he was able to seamlessly transition between these roles, each one distinct and memorable.

Martinet's impact on the Super Mario franchise extends far beyond the characters he voiced. He helped to shape the very essence of the Mario universe, infusing it with a sense of joy, wonder, and boundless imagination. He was a key part of the team that created the characters, crafted the storylines, and brought the games to life, and his contributions will continue to be felt for years to come.

His departure from the role of Mario marks the end of an era, but it also opens the door for new voices to emerge and to carry on the legacy that he has so masterfully created. The future of Mario is bright, and Martinet's influence will continue to be felt for generations to come. He has set the standard for video game voice acting, inspiring countless others to pursue their dreams and to believe in the power of their own voices.

As the gaming world bids farewell to Charles Martinet as the voice of Mario, his legacy remains a beacon of inspiration, creativity, and the enduring power of a well-crafted character. His contributions have shaped the Super Mario franchise into a global phenomenon, and his voice will forever be etched in the hearts of gamers worldwide.

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