MC Ballyhoo



"Before us lies a zone of extras! A realm of more! A state of surplus!"

- MC Ballyhoo

MC Ballyhoo is the ringmaster of the extravagant Star Carnival that takes after the traditional style of Mario Party board maps and mini-games. His hat, Big Top, is a separate entity, completely capable of thinking and acting of its own free will. It is unconfirmed as to why the pair stays together, although Ballyhoo may wear the hat to provide a charming first impression to those who would otherwise be turned off by his formidable face.

MC Ballyhoo is highly energetic, often flailing around with excitement. His voice is very similar to that of a male Pianta's, although his laugh sounds forced. He speaks with almost satirical ringmaster phrasing while introducing the various events at his circus. Big Top's propeller allows him to hover in midair.

MC Ballyhoo's name would appear to be based on the word "ballyhoo", meaning "great noise or commotion"; such a term is often applied to carnival audiences. The term MC is a title short for "master of ceremonies" in normal cases, although MC Ballyhoo describes himself as a "master of catastrophies".

During the events of Mario Party 8, MC Ballyhoo invited Mario and his closest friends to the Star Carnival, where he took on the role of the game host, like Toad did in the original Mario Party. His first appearance on the box art for Mario Party 8 lead many to believe that he was Chuck Quizmo.