A moment of silence for these scrapped Mario Movie character designs

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New concept art reveals what could’ve been.

Mario Bros movie poster
(Image credit: Nintendo)

The Mario Movie was undoubtedly a huge success, storming the box offices in 2023. While I'd consider the film to be a fitting homage to the iconic games, new concept art reveals that the film could've featured even more familiar faces. A moment of silence for our forgotten faves – I'm looking at you Toadette.

While video game adaptations are hotter (and better) than ever, it's strange to see what could've been. With a new Mario Movie set to release in 2026, hopefully we'll see a few more forgotten characters making a well-deserved cameo. In retrospect, I can't believe the Mario Movie didn't feature Princess Daisy – I better see justice for Luasiy in 2026!

Jed Diffenderfer Mario Movie concept art

Poor Bowser... (Image credit: Jed Diffenderfer)

The adorable concept art was created by artist Jed Diffenderfer who worked as a story developer during production. Sharing the official concept artwork on his website, eagle-eyed fans noticed a host of characters that were seemingly scrapped from the final film. Among the familiar faces were Birdo, Toadsworth, Toadette and of course, Princess Daisy. 

The art also reveals potential new lore around Bowser's infatuation with Peach, with an illustration of a teary-eyed Bowser running away from the Mushroom High prom. Another piece features an epic smash-style battle with almost every Super Mario Bros. character you could imagine. With the new Mario Movie set to be "broadening Mario's world," according to an official Nintendo announcement, perhaps we'll see some of these neglected characters getting the screen time they deserve. 

For more gaming content, check out the gaming trends set to shake up 2024. If you're after more Nintendo news, take a look at the bizarre Nintendo patents that really exist (just don't ask me why). 

Natalie Fear
Natalie Fear
Staff Writer

Natalie Fear is Creative Bloq's staff writer. With an eye for trending topics and a passion for internet culture, she brings you the latest in art and design news. Natalie also runs Creative Bloq’s Day in the Life series, spotlighting diverse talent across the creative industries. Outside of work, she loves all things literature and music (although she’s partial to a spot of TikTok brain rot).