
Who will assume the role of the speedy hedgehog next?
For a little over ten years now, Sonic the Hedgehog has been played by accomplished voice actor Roger Craig Smith in all of his appearances (not counting the Sonic movie, in which he was played by Ben Schwartz). While the original change to Smith from previous voice actors Ryan Drummond and Jason Craig was an adjustment for fans, he proved to be a fantastic fit for the blue blur, conveying the character’s trademark wisecracking, impulsive personality to a tee. He even portrayed the character in the Sonic Boom animated series, which ran for two seasons.
However, somewhat suddenly, it seems Smith’s time in the trademark red sneakers has come to an end. On his personal Twitter today, Smith said “10 years was an amazing run,” thanking fans for their longtime support. While he did not explicitly say that he was retiring from the role, the implication is pretty obvious. This came completely out of left field, as Sega had not announced his time with the character was ending, nor have they commented on the matter as of writing.
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.
🦔 pic.twitter.com/7Rn9PVA92m— Roger Craig Smith (@RogerCraigSmith) January 28, 2021
Despite its suddenness, Smith’s announcement has drawn an outpouring of support on his Twitter from both fans and castmates wishing him well in all of his future endeavors.
You'll always be my Sonic, Roger. It was a pleasure to work with you.
— Alan Denton (@AlanTheWriter) January 28, 2021
you will be missed dearly, thank you for everything you've done, for the fans, and sonic as a whole.
Good luck with everything💙— ella♡ (@xNekoElla) January 28, 2021
You will be missed, Roger! Thank you! 🌀 pic.twitter.com/WoYp2SuS1L
— Cy (@Cybrid101) January 28, 2021
Very sad to hear. You have been amazing as Sonic. Thank you for everything. You’re not only an amazing voice actor but an amazing person as well🦔💙 pic.twitter.com/fnNl3Udch7
— Billy K (@SlySonic) January 28, 2021
Considering Sega hasn’t even acknowledged the departure yet, there’s obviously no word on who will be assuming the role of the spiny blue hero next. Perhaps Ben Schwartz could be persuaded to take on the job full time?