Donald Glover Shares How He Scored the Role of Yoshi in The Super Mario Galaxy Movie

When it was announced that Donald Glover would voice Yoshi in The Super Mario Galaxy Movie, many fans were pleasantly surprised by this unique casting choice. While Chris Pratt’s portrayal of Mario sparked some debate and Jack Black’s Bowser felt like a perfect match, Glover stepping into the role of the beloved dinosaur was an unexpected yet inspired decision.

Even Shigeru Miyamoto, the legendary creator of Mario, and Illumination’s CEO Chris Meledandri had their doubts about Glover as Yoshi, primarily out of concern for the actor. After all, Yoshi’s dialogue mainly consists of just saying “Yoshi,” right?

“Donald was someone I had wanted to collaborate with for years because I’m a fan of his work,” Meledandri shared. “After the first movie, I received a call from Donald expressing how much he loved it. He mentioned wanting to discuss any potential involvement in future projects.”

“I pitched this idea to Miyamoto-san, and we arranged a meeting in Los Angeles. Donald suggested, ‘I could do an amazing Yoshi.’ We were initially taken aback, but I truly believe Donald can do anything.”

Miyamoto was particularly surprised by the idea of Glover voicing Yoshi, a character traditionally voiced by Nintendo composer Kazumi Totaka in the games.

“From our perspective, we were thinking, ‘Are we sure? Yoshi only says “Yoshi.” Is that okay?” Miyamoto remarked with a laugh.

Any uncertainty vanished when Glover arrived for his first recording session as Yoshi.

“When it was time for the initial recording, Donald came in with his own ideas for vocalizations, aiming to honor the classic Yoshi sounds while adding his own twist,” Meledandri explained.

Glover was eager to take on the role of Yoshi after watching The Super Mario Bros. Movie with his kids in 2023.

“I took my kids to see the first movie in Pasadena, and we were right in the front row. They had such a blast,” Glover recalled. “I was blown away by it. But when it ended, I thought, ‘Yoshi wasn’t in that, and I know people love Yoshi.’ So I reached out to Chris and said, ‘What are you guys planning for Yoshi? I want to be Yoshi.'”

“[Chris] was really kind and said, ‘I’m glad you enjoyed the movie, but just so you know, Yoshi’s only going to say “Yoshi.”‘” Glover responded enthusiastically, “Great! Please!”

This is indeed the case. Aside from his usual sounds and antics, the only word Yoshi utters in the film is “Yoshi,” making it Glover’s own version of “I am Groot.”

“I just love the character. He’s fantastic,” Glover expressed. “I felt honored to portray someone as iconic as Yoshi and to be part of this universe. There are very few brands that resonate with me like this, and I was thrilled about it.”

The Super Mario Galaxy Movie hits theaters on April 1.