Mario Kart World Debuts New Voice Actors for Donkey Kong and Potentially Princess Peach

Nintendo’s storied racing franchise takes a major step forward with the launch of Mario Kart World, now available for the Nintendo Switch via eShop and retail.

While fans are celebrating the game’s new features and expanded character roster, close attention has also turned to notable changes in voice acting across key characters. One of the most significant updates involves Donkey Kong.

Since the GameCube era, Takashi Nagasako had become synonymous with voicing the iconic character, marking his presence in acclaimed titles such as Mario Power Tennis, Donkey Kong Jungle Beat, and the globally successful Mario Kart 8.

However, in Mario Kart World, longtime fans were quick to notice a new name beside Donkey Kong in the game credits—Koji Takeda.

Takeda is no stranger to the role, having previously provided Donkey Kong's voice for the Japanese version of The Super Mario Bros.

Movie. This development marks the conclusion of Nagasako’s extensive run as Donkey Kong since around the early 2000s, closing a chapter for the character’s vocal history.

With Mario Kart World, Koji Takeda brings a fresh interpretation to Donkey Kong, officially taking up the mantle as the beloved ape undergoes broader character changes, coinciding with the highly anticipated upcoming release of Donkey Kong Bananza.

Voice acting shifts aren't limited to Donkey Kong.

Longtime Princess Peach, Toad, and Toadette voice actor Samantha Kelly, who has held these roles since 2007, is notably absent from Mario Kart World's credits.

Although official confirmation from Nintendo regarding the replacement has not yet been issued, widespread fan discussion suggests Laila Berzins may be taking over as Princess Peach.

As of now, no formal statement has clarified the specifics of this casting change. These updates follow a recent trend at Nintendo regarding significant voice actor transitions.

In August 2023, Charles Martinet, celebrated worldwide for his portrayal of Mario, stepped down from voicing the character after decades of iconic performances.

Continuing to work as Mario Ambassador, Martinet’s legacy endures as Kevin Afghani assumes responsibility for voicing not only Mario, but also Luigi, Wario, and Waluigi in the franchise’s latest titles. With Mario Kart World, Nintendo continues to evolve its most celebrated IPs, blending gameplay innovation with refreshed vocal performances.

The collaboration of new and established voice actors reinforces the franchise’s legacy and promises to keep both longtime fans and new players engaged as the Mario universe expands further on Nintendo Switch and beyond.

Stay tuned to Nintendo Direct and the official eShop channels for further updates as Donkey Kong Bananza and additional character announcements approach.

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