Bowser

Personality and Arc: Bowser is navigating a redemption arc, trying to be a "good dad" to Bowser Jr. while managing his anger issues. Despite being a "good-hearted" creature in this film, he still wants to be feared for being evil, just not in a cruel way, leading to conflicts over his new "sentimental" nature. Relationship with Bowser Jr.: Bowser Jr. is a central character who wants to restore the family name. Junior believes his father has become too soft and seeks to prove himself by creating "Planet Bowser" to free his father and rule together, aiming to make his dad proud, often by being more ruthless than his father currently is. New Passions: While locked up, Bowser finds joy in creating art and painting, as shown by Bowser Jr. questioning his father's artistic endeavors. Physical Appearance and Role: He is a large, dragon-like Koopa, twice the height of Mario. While he is initially seen in a less-than-ideal prison situation, he is expected to return to his menacing role later in the film, potentially transforming into Fury Bowser. Voice Actor: Jack Black returns to voice the character, with his iconic grunts and roars provided by Kenny James. In The Super Mario Galaxy Movie (2026), Bowser’s character is defined by a complex internal struggle between his newfound desire for redemption and his deep-seated villainous nature, largely driven by his relationship with his son, Bowser Jr.. While initially mellowed out during his imprisonment—engaging in hobbies like painting and even hosting a weekly book club with Luigi—he eventually reverts to his old self after being "rescued" by his son. Antihero Phase: During the second act, Bowser enters "antihero" territory, temporarily aligning himself with Mario and Luigi to help them reach the Gateway Galaxy. This shift is motivated by his desire to be a better father and manage his anger issues.