The Super Mario Galaxy Movie Sequel: Release Date, Cast, and Everything You Need to Know
The highly anticipated sequel to the blockbuster Super Mario Bros. Movie has been officially announced as The Super Mario Galaxy Movie. Set for release on April 3, 2026, in the United States and April 24, 2026, in Japan, this animated adventure by Universal Pictures and Illumination promises to take fans on an exciting journey across the galaxy.
Announcement and First Teaser
The movie “The Super Mario Galaxy Movie Sequel” and release date were revealed during Nintendo’s 40th anniversary celebration of the original Super Mario Bros. game through a special Nintendo Direct presentation. The teaser opens with Mario peacefully napping under a tree, set against the backdrop of Princess Peach’s castle. The camera then soars up into space, hinting at a galaxy-spanning adventure featuring favorite characters such as Monty Mole, Cheep Cheeps, and bustling Toads near the castle.
Star-Studded Cast and Experienced Crew Return
Fans will be delighted to hear that the original voice cast is reprising their roles. Chris Pratt returns as Mario, Anya Taylor-Joy as Princess Peach, Charlie Day as Luigi, Jack Black as Bowser, Keegan-Michael Key as Toad, and Kevin Michael Richardson as Kamek. The film’s directors Aaron Horvath and Michael Jelenic, writer Matthew Fogel, and composer Brian Tyler also return, ensuring continuity and quality following the success of the first film.
Story Inspiration and Box Office Success
Inspired by the critically acclaimed Nintendo Wii game Super Mario Galaxy (2007), the sequel expands on the universe introduced in the original 2023 film. The first movie followed Brooklyn plumbers Mario and Luigi as they entered the Mushroom Kingdom, teaming up with Princess Peach, Toad, and Donkey Kong to rescue Luigi from Bowser. That film earned a phenomenal $1.36 billion worldwide, making it the fifth highest-grossing animated film of all time and the most successful video game adaptation ever.
Nintendo’s Expanding Cinematic Universe
Nintendo is building on this momentum by expanding its film universe. Alongside Mario’s upcoming galaxy adventure, Sony Pictures plans to release a Legend of Zelda movie in March 2027. This coordinated effort is guided by creative teams committed to maintaining the beloved charm and excitement of Nintendo’s properties on the big screen.
Additional Production Notes
Development for The Super Mario Galaxy Movie has included detailed storyboarding and the introduction of possibly new and returning characters from deep within Mario lore. The film continues the collaboration between Illumination, Universal Pictures, and Nintendo, promising top-tier animation quality and faithful storytelling true to the source material.
