Roger Craig Smith had played the blue blur for over 10 years.

The voice of Sonic the Hedgehog has announced his departure from the role.

Yesterday, Roger Craig Smith took to Twitter to say – in rather vague terms – that he was no longer voicing the super-fast blue hedgehog. He started giving life to Sonic in 2010, primarily in video games but also in the Sonic Boom animated show and various cameos, including Wreck-it Ralph and its 2018 sequel.

“Welp, 10 years was an amazing run,” he said. “Onward to new zones. Much love to the fans who’ve been so kind. It’s been an honor.”

Though the hedgehog emoji and reference to “zones” made it clear as day what the actor was referring to, publisher Sega confirmed that Smith was leaving the role later that day.

“For over 10 years, Roger Craig Smith has been an integral part of the Sega family,” the publisher wrote on Twitter.

“He brought the voice of Sonic to life, and we are forever grateful for his never-ending enthusiasm in helping the community and spreading joy.

“Thank you, Roger, for all you’ve done for Sonic.”

In a statement to Kotaku, Sega said: “Roger Craig Smith’s portrayal of Sonic the Hedgehog is one that fans are sure to remember for generations to come. He brought the character to life in a truly authentic way, with Sonic’s signature attitude and flair, and we’ll always be thankful to Roger for his contribution to the franchise.”

No reason has been given for why Smith has vacated the role, but tweets from fellow voice actor Tara Strong hint that he was fired by Sega. Other speculation includes Ben Schwartz – who voiced Sonic in the 2020 live-action film – potentially replacing Smith.

In addition to Sonic, Roger Craig Smith has also voiced Ezio Auditore from the Assassin’s Creed series, as well as Resident Evil’s Chris Redfield and Mirage from Apex Legends in the past.

The aforementioned Sonic the Hedgehog movie is apparently receiving a sequel. There are also hints at new Sonic games coming out during 2021.

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