Nintendo has scheduled a dedicated Nintendo Direct presentation for Monday, March 9—the eve of the annual Mario Day festivities. While the showcase is set to debut the final theatrical trailer for The Super Mario Galaxy Movie, the legendary developer surprised fans early this Friday. In an unexpected reveal, Nintendo unveiled the film’s official poster, confirming the return of a long-dormant and largely overlooked antagonist.
It’s official: the bubble-breathing tyrant Wart is making his big-screen debut in The Super Mario Galaxy Movie.
Join us on Monday, Mar 9, at 2pm PT for the #NintendoDirect featuring the final trailer for The Super Mario Galaxy Movie. Please note that no game information will be included in this presentation. Watch here: https://t.co/ERYYNEf9az
— Nintendo of America (@NintendoAmerica) March 6, 2026
As the primary nemesis of Super Mario Bros. 2, Wart is a formidable toad known for his amphibious bulk and his unique vulnerability to fresh produce. Originally appearing as Mamu in the Famicom title Yume Kōjō: Doki Doki Panic (the game that served as the foundation for the Western Super Mario Bros. 2), Wart has spent much of the last few decades in the shadows of the Mushroom Kingdom. His rare appearances have been relegated to brief cameos in The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening, various remakes, and a collectible Spirit in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. Outside of the digital realm, he has occasionally surfaced in niche comic book adaptations and manga series.
For longtime enthusiasts, Wart has often felt like an underutilized foil to the Mario brothers. Following his role as a climactic boss in the late 80s, many expected him to become a recurring threat, yet Nintendo has almost exclusively favored Bowser as the franchise’s ultimate heavy hitter. This cinematic revival marks a significant shift in the series’ hierarchy.
In The Super Mario Galaxy Movie, Wart is finally poised to reclaim the spotlight. While his presence is a nostalgic shock, it aligns perfectly with the film’s deep-cut ensemble cast, which already features other Super Mario Bros. 2 veterans including Birdo, Mouser, and the pincer-wielding Clawgrip.
The biggest remaining mystery is whether persistent rumors surrounding Wario’s involvement are accurate, or if early reports of “W-named” villains were simply a mix-up with Wart’s inclusion.
The Super Mario Galaxy Movie features a star-studded voice cast, with Chris Pratt returning as Mario alongside Anya Taylor-Joy as Princess Peach and Charlie Day as Luigi. Jack Black reprises his role as Bowser, with Keegan-Michael Key as Toad and Kevin Michael Richardson as Kamek. Joining the franchise are Brie Larson as the cosmic protector Rosalina and Benny Safdie as Bowser Jr. Fans are currently awaiting confirmation on which actor will provide the voice for Wart.
The Super Mario Galaxy Movie arrives in theaters on April 1.
Source: Polygon
