Maaya Sakamoto is perfect casting for Rosalina—her voice has that elegant, ethereal quality that matches the character perfectly. Daiki Yamashita as Bowser Jr. sounds great; he can do both the bratty kid energy and the emotional depth. The first Mario movie was fun and exceeded expectations, so I'm excited for this one. Super Mario Galaxy's story will be great animated, especially with all the cosmic visuals and Rosalina's backstory.

The Super Mario Galaxy Movie is heading to the stars for the second Hollywood film adaptation of the classic video game series, and coming along for the ride are some of anime's most prominent voice actors. Nintendo Japan revealed the Japanese voices of new characters joining the movie's kingdom today in a special trailer for the Japanese release.

WATCH THE JAPANESE TEASER TRAILER: The Super Mario Galaxy Movie Japanese Teaser Trailer

Japanese Voice Cast Announced

Rosalina - voiced by Maaya Sakamoto (Known for: Mari Makinami Illustrious in Rebuild of Evangelion, Shiki Ryougi in The Garden of Sinners)

Bowser Jr. - voiced by Daiki Yamashita (Known for: Izuku Midoriya (Deku) in My Hero Academia, Narancia Ghirga in JoJo's Bizarre Adventure: Golden Wind)

These casting choices bring together two of anime's most recognizable and talented voice actors for the film's Japanese release.

English Voice Cast

For the English version:

Rosalina - Brie Larson (Captain Marvel, Room)

Bowser Jr. - Benny Safdie (director/actor known for Uncut Gems, Good Time)

Release Dates

• North America: April 3, 2026

• Japan: April 24, 2026

The three-week gap between releases follows standard distribution patterns for major animated films.

Production Team

Directors: Aaron Horvath and Michael Jelenic (returning from the first film)

Script: Matthew Fogel

Producers:

• Chris Meledandri (Illumination CEO)

• Shigeru Miyamoto (Nintendo Creative Fellow and creator of Mario)

Studio: Illumination

Distribution: Universal Pictures

The return of the original film's creative team ensures continuity in tone and quality.

From Mushroom Kingdom to the Stars

While the first film focused on Mario and Luigi's introduction to the Mushroom Kingdom, The Super Mario Galaxy Movie takes the adventure into space, adapting one of the most beloved entries in the Mario game franchise. The Super Mario Galaxy games are known for their innovative gameplay, stunning cosmic visuals, and Rosalina's touching backstory.

The inclusion of Rosalina and Bowser Jr. as major characters signals that this sequel will explore different emotional territory while maintaining the fun, action-packed energy of the first film.

Why This Casting Works

Maaya Sakamoto as Rosalina: Sakamoto's voice work is known for its elegance and emotional depth. Rosalina is a mysterious, maternal figure with a melancholic backstory, and Sakamoto has the range to convey both the character's cosmic wisdom and underlying sadness.

Daiki Yamashita as Bowser Jr.: While best known for playing heroic Deku, Yamashita has proven versatility. Bowser Jr. requires someone who can balance bratty antagonism with childlike vulnerability—the character idolizes his father and desperately seeks approval. Yamashita's ability to convey earnest emotion will serve this dynamic well.

Are you excited for The Super Mario Galaxy Movie? Did you play the Super Mario Galaxy games? What do you think of the Japanese voice casting? Will you watch in English or Japanese? Share your thoughts in the comments below!