Sonic the Hedgehog voice actor Roger Craig Smith is officially leaving the role after spending the last decade providing classic lines to the beloved character. Sonic the Hedgehog has been given life by several voice actors that have each attempted to add their own personality to the classic character since he was first introduced. Smith's career with the Sonic canon began with the launch of the racing video game Sonic Free Riders back in 2010. The lauded voice actor's contributions concluded with the kart racing game Team Sonic Racing in 2019.
Ever since Sega first introduced the Sonic franchise thirty years ago to challenge the dominance of Nintendo's Mario Brothers series, the free-running blue blur has become an icon with a fanbase of deeply loyal enthusiasts. A key to the blue hedgehog's enduring legacy is the extremely consistent marketing and branding that has changed little throughout the years. Sonic's need for speed, coupled with his witty remarks and impressionable character design have paved the way for a constant appearance and attitude that fans have grown to adore. Despite going on to eventually appear in more than one medium or consumer market, Sonic has largely remained the same from its inception. Sonic even received a full-length film adaptation recently, with the movie doing much better than many expected and generating $300 million in box office profits. Sonic's evergreen nature is a testament to the loyalty of fans who still support the blue speedster despite some highly unpopular 3D titles throughout the years.
The announcement was made by Roger Craig Smith on his Twitter account this morning to his nearly 100,000 followers: "Welp, 10 years was an amazing run. Onward to new zones! Much love to the fans who've been so kind. It's been an honor." Smith made no mention of what his plans might be. Smith has previously been known as the voice of Mirage in Apex Legends and Ezio Auditore in several Assassins Creed games.
In anticipation of Sonic the Hedgehog's upcoming 30th anniversary, Sega has promised a full lineup of new games to celebrate. These new games could range from main releases, mobile games, or other digital content. With Nintendo recently celebrating the 35th anniversary of Mario with the release of the Super Mario 3D All-Stars, the onus will be on Sega to plan something big for the occasion.
The Sonic the Hedgehog franchise has carved out a unique niche among its supporters. This year and next have the potential for Sega to take the crown from Nintendo once again through its small yet massive blue hedgehog.
Source: Roger Craig Smith - Twitter