Charlie Day Names Luigi Mangione as His Second Favorite Luigi in Super Mario Galaxy Movie

The cast of the animated film is currently jet-setting around the globe, participating in interviews to promote their latest project, which has just hit theaters. During one of these sessions, Charlie Day, the voice of Luigi, was asked about his favorite Luigi from “recent American history.” In a surprising twist, he burst into laughter before mentioning the controversial figure, Luigi Mangione.

At a recent interview event in Tokyo, Japan, the cast was engaged in a typical promotional chat about the film. These interviews often follow a predictable script, with guests delivering polished responses to pre-approved questions. Given the nature of a Nintendo film, one might expect even tighter control over the proceedings. That’s what makes Day’s unexpected response to the favorite Luigi question all the more entertaining.

“You play Luigi, a great Italian guy,” the interviewer prompts. “Who’s your favorite Luigi in recent American history?” Day, taken aback, repeats the question while Keegan-Michael Key interjects. He then bursts into laughter, while Anna Taylor-Joy, who voices Princess Peach, playfully hides her face.

“Well, me, first of all,” Day manages to say, stifling his laughter. “Number one. Uh, Luigi Mangione…Luigi Mangione number two.” The interviewer, enjoying the moment, acknowledges that this was the response they were hoping for.

For those unfamiliar, Mangione is currently in the spotlight due to serious allegations involving the death of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in New York City on December 4, 2024. This incident sparked a brief manhunt for Mangione, who was apprehended shortly thereafter.

Since then, he has gained a following online, partly due to his looks and the general disdain many have for insurance companies. Following the incident, some fans began to draw connections between Mangione and the beloved Nintendo character, even showing up in Nintendo-themed attire to support him. It’s likely that Nintendo is not thrilled about this association, especially with one of their film’s stars making such a direct link. It would be fascinating to see the reactions behind the scenes at Nintendo HQ right now.