In a recent discussion with Polygon, acclaimed voice artist Eric Bauza explored the nuances of his role in The Super Mario Galaxy Movie. Bauza voices the Toad General, a character whose diminutive, charming stature is contrasted by an unexpectedly resonant and authoritative delivery. While fans have embraced Bauza’s performance, many Nintendo enthusiasts have noted a preference for Toadsworth, Princess Peach’s venerable steward who debuted in 2002’s Super Mario Sunshine. However, I believe it is time to champion another distinguished fungal commander: George Washingtoad, a figure who predates Toadsworth by over a decade.
Images: Nintendo
George Washingtoad made his sole appearance in a 1989 episode of the animated classic The Super Mario Bros. Super Show! The story kicks off with Mario’s narrative entry: “Plumber’s log number 1776: We arrived in the 13 Mushroom colonies at the behest of the legendary General George Washingtoad.” The General himself is a striking visual parody; despite his standard Toad height, he bears a stern countenance and a white, powdered ponytail. His ornate uniform is accented with gold buttons, and his mushroom cap is uniquely tailored to resemble a continental military hat. His dialogue is steeped in historical puns, opening with “I cannot tell a lie” and challenging Luigi’s bravery by asking if he is a “patriot or a coward.”
Image: Nintendo
The episode serves as a playful homage to George Washington’s historic crossing of the Delaware River. In this version, Washingtoad and his Mushroom militia—aided by the Mario brothers—navigate the “Delawide River” to confront “Redcoat Koopa,” the leader of the opposing Koopish forces. During the conflict, Koopa utilizes an Ice Scepter to freeze the General and his troops. While seemingly a cartoon trope, this acts as a clever nod to the actual sub-zero temperatures Washington’s army endured on that fateful Christmas night in 1776.
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The episode concludes with the defeat of the Koopish army, after which Washingtoad bestows upon Mario and Luigi the title of “Official Uncles of Our Country.” Curiously, the General is seen suffering from a cold in the final scene. While presumably a consequence of being frozen by Koopa, as an American history enthusiast, I couldn’t help but draw a parallel to the real Washington’s passing, which was brought on by a severe throat infection and the subsequent medical bloodletting meant to cure it. It’s a dark speculation—and I’m uncertain if Toads even possess blood—but it would certainly provide a grim explanation for why this particular commander has been absent from the Mario universe for over thirty years.
Source: Polygon
