The Super Mario Galaxy Movie is positioned to be one of the most-anticipated animated releases of 2026, building on Nintendo and Illumination's successful partnership from The Super Mario Bros.
Movie.
With an impressive box office track record and a broad fanbase, the collaboration—spearheaded by Nintendo and animation studio Illumination—continues to draw excitement ahead of the film’s theatrical launch.
The Super Mario Galaxy Movie is scheduled to premiere on April 3, 2026, in the United States, with a Japan release set for April 24, 2026. One of the most intriguing aspects leading up to the release has been the speculation around the movie's diverse character lineup.
During a recent interview with GamesRadar+, Chris Pratt, who voices Mario in the movie, offered insight into what fans can expect from the film’s roster of characters.
When asked if there were any new faces he was excited to see in the final cut, Pratt responded affirmatively, noting that there are indeed more characters on the horizon.
"I can’t reveal details," Pratt stated, "but there are a few incredible additions—some have already been shown in trailers, like Rosalina and Bowser Jr.
But beyond that, there are additional characters yet to be unveiled who will excite longtime fans." Yoshi, a fan-favorite from the Mario franchise, has been confirmed to feature in the upcoming film, following a leak last year.
Pratt’s comments have further fueled anticipation, as the possibilities for new and returning characters remain open.
While the trailers have highlighted prominent figures such as Rosalina and Bowser Jr., speculation abounds regarding the presence of other iconic Nintendo characters like Daisy, Wario, and Waluigi.
The Mario universe is expansive, with niche favorites like Lakitu, Nabbit, and Wiggler also waiting for their cinematic spotlight. Some supporting characters appeared only briefly in The Super Mario Bros.
Movie—including Pauline, King Boo, and Diddy and Dixie Kong—prompting speculation that these familiar faces may have expanded roles in The Super Mario Galaxy Movie.
Nintendo and Illumination’s collaborative approach aims to delight existing fans and draw in new audiences by honoring the legacy and vast character roster of the Mario franchise. During The Game Awards in December 2023, audiences were treated to new footage from The Super Mario Galaxy Movie, including an extended scene featuring the Mario brothers facing off against Bowser Jr.
This preview further demonstrated the film's commitment to high-energy action and visual fidelity, hallmarks of Illumination's animation style, while remaining true to Nintendo’s storied gaming legacy. With its April 2026 release on the horizon, The Super Mario Galaxy Movie stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of Nintendo’s flagship franchise.
As Chris Pratt and the creative team promise more surprises, fans can look forward to a cinematic adventure that celebrates both new and classic characters, firmly rooting the film in the cherished lore of the Mario universe.
Movie.
With an impressive box office track record and a broad fanbase, the collaboration—spearheaded by Nintendo and animation studio Illumination—continues to draw excitement ahead of the film’s theatrical launch.
The Super Mario Galaxy Movie is scheduled to premiere on April 3, 2026, in the United States, with a Japan release set for April 24, 2026. One of the most intriguing aspects leading up to the release has been the speculation around the movie's diverse character lineup.
During a recent interview with GamesRadar+, Chris Pratt, who voices Mario in the movie, offered insight into what fans can expect from the film’s roster of characters.
When asked if there were any new faces he was excited to see in the final cut, Pratt responded affirmatively, noting that there are indeed more characters on the horizon.
"I can’t reveal details," Pratt stated, "but there are a few incredible additions—some have already been shown in trailers, like Rosalina and Bowser Jr.
But beyond that, there are additional characters yet to be unveiled who will excite longtime fans." Yoshi, a fan-favorite from the Mario franchise, has been confirmed to feature in the upcoming film, following a leak last year.
Pratt’s comments have further fueled anticipation, as the possibilities for new and returning characters remain open.
While the trailers have highlighted prominent figures such as Rosalina and Bowser Jr., speculation abounds regarding the presence of other iconic Nintendo characters like Daisy, Wario, and Waluigi.
The Mario universe is expansive, with niche favorites like Lakitu, Nabbit, and Wiggler also waiting for their cinematic spotlight. Some supporting characters appeared only briefly in The Super Mario Bros.
Movie—including Pauline, King Boo, and Diddy and Dixie Kong—prompting speculation that these familiar faces may have expanded roles in The Super Mario Galaxy Movie.
Nintendo and Illumination’s collaborative approach aims to delight existing fans and draw in new audiences by honoring the legacy and vast character roster of the Mario franchise. During The Game Awards in December 2023, audiences were treated to new footage from The Super Mario Galaxy Movie, including an extended scene featuring the Mario brothers facing off against Bowser Jr.
This preview further demonstrated the film's commitment to high-energy action and visual fidelity, hallmarks of Illumination's animation style, while remaining true to Nintendo’s storied gaming legacy. With its April 2026 release on the horizon, The Super Mario Galaxy Movie stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of Nintendo’s flagship franchise.
As Chris Pratt and the creative team promise more surprises, fans can look forward to a cinematic adventure that celebrates both new and classic characters, firmly rooting the film in the cherished lore of the Mario universe.
