Nintendo has recently unveiled a refreshed appearance for Diddy Kong, following the earlier redesign of his iconic partner, Donkey Kong. This year, fans spotted noticeable updates to Donkey Kong's design in official artwork and early footage from Mario Kart World.

Now, Diddy Kong has also received a makeover, as seen in new artwork on Nintendo's website and at the Licensing Expo 2025 in Las Vegas. According to Nintendo Life, the updated Diddy Kong features a more cartoonish style with rounder eyes and a cheekier, friendlier smile.

Attendees at the Licensing Expo 2025, an event where brands showcase their franchises and secure merchandising and partnership deals, have the opportunity to see the new designs of both Diddy and Donkey Kong. Photos shared by attendee Cptn_Alex on social media highlight these changes.

Image credit: Nintendo.Image credit: Nintendo.

While Nintendo has not officially commented on the redesigns of Diddy Kong and Donkey Kong, many believe these changes are inspired by the characters' appearances in the successful The Super Mario Bros. Movie. Even Princess Peach received a slight redesign, with her appearance on the box of Princess Peach: Showtime! for the Nintendo Switch reflecting her look from the film, as noted by IGN's sister site, Eurogamer.

Of course this post is popping off lmao. Here’s a better look at the new render :)

via Nintendo booth @ Licensing Expo pic.twitter.com/QzxJOWs9gF

— CptnAlex (@Cptn_Alex) May 20, 2025

Donkey Kong is set to star in the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 game, Donkey Kong Bananza. Although Diddy Kong's inclusion hasn't been confirmed yet, the presence of other Kong family members like Cranky Kong, combined with Diddy's updated look, suggests a strong possibility of his involvement. Additionally, with the anticipated sequel to The Super Mario Bros. Movie, tentatively titled Super Mario World, and Donkey Kong's significant role in the first film along with a cameo by Diddy Kong, fans can expect to see more of these redesigned characters in future projects.