You might not know him, but you know his kids. Shigeru Miyamoto, 46, is the father/designer of Donkey Kong, Super Mario, and a host of other videogames (including the current Nintendo 64 hit The Legend of Zelda), all of which have sold, in total, more than 250 million game cartridges. During a recent visit to New York City, Nintendo's most powerful weapon took time to talk to EW about fame, American culture -- and Les Paul.
WHAT'S IT LIKE TO BE SO ADMIRED FROM THE TOP OF THE INDUSTRY TO KIDS IN THE STREET?
I'm flattered and honored, [but] I don't have a conspicuous face, so even in a small country like Japan I have no troubles.
DO YOU FOLLOW AMERICAN MOVIES AND POP CULTURE?
Their way of advertising impresses me. I must admit that I am often attracted to [American] movies only to leave unsatisfied. I love Spielberg's Raiders of the Lost Ark [though], because the editing in that film is excellent.
I HEAR YOU'RE REALLY INTO BLUEGRASS.
It helps me to relax when I'm not dwelling on creating the next game. That's why I have taken up the banjo, which I have been playing for quite a while. When I am in the U.S. I try to catch whatever shows I can.
REALLY? YOU'D PROBABLY ALSO LIKE GUITARIST LES PAUL'S SHOWS AT THE IRIDIUM EVERY MONDAY.
[Stunned] Les Paul? Is he still alive? Wow! He's a legend! [Pause] Tonight, we are going to see Blue Man Group.
I'M SURE YOU'LL ENJOY THEM.
Yeah, but I sure wish it was Monday.
