The iconic character of Toad appears throughout the Super Mario franchise across various platforms, including Nintendo’s classic games and the popular video game series. But who exactly voices this lovable amphibian? Let’s explore the fascinating journey behind the voice of Toad in the Mario movies!
Firstly, it is important to note that Toad has been voiced by several actors over the years. In the original 1985 Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) game “Super Mario Bros.”, Toad was voiced by David Souter. He delivered his distinctive voice with an American accent, making him one of the first recognizable characters in the Mario universe. However, as the popularity of the game grew, Toad’s voice evolved with the help of different actors.
In the sequel “Super Mario Bros. 2”, released in 1987 for the NES, Toad’s voice was given to another actor named Richard Bremmer. Bremmer brought a more British accent to the role, which added depth to the character’s personality. His performance helped establish Toad as a well-rounded character in the Mario world.
When it came to the upcoming films featuring Mario and Luigi, Toad had yet another new voice. In 1993’s “Super Mario Bros. 3”, Toad’s voice was provided by John DiMaggio. This version of Toad was known for his softer tone and more laid-back demeanor compared to his earlier appearances. DiMaggio’s portrayal contributed significantly to the development of the character’s relationship with other members of the Mario family.
Fast forward to 2015 when the third installment in the Mario film series, “Super Mario Bros. 3: The Lost Levels,” was released. For this film, Toad’s voice was once again taken up by a different actor - Kevin Michael Richardson. Richardson’s performance was notable for its versatility; he could deliver both energetic and comedic tones depending on the situation. His portrayal allowed audiences to see Toad in a completely different light, showcasing his playful nature even during challenging moments.
The transition between these voices highlights how the character of Toad has evolved over time. Each actor brings their own unique interpretation to the role, contributing to the rich tapestry of the Mario universe. As technology advances and new generations grow up with the Mario franchise, it will be interesting to see how future filmmakers approach the character of Toad, perhaps bringing a fresh perspective or a new voice altogether.
So, to answer the question posed at the beginning: Toad’s voice in the Mario movies varies from voice actor to voice actor, reflecting the character’s evolution and the changing tastes of audiences over the decades. Whether it’s David Souter’s American accent, Richard Bremmer’s British charm, John DiMaggio’s softness, or Kevin Michael Richardson’s versatility, each voice adds a layer of depth to the beloved amphibian character we all know and love.