Mario is one of the most beloved video game characters of all time. There are all sorts of interesting things you may not know about the plucky plumber. Many fan theories have popped up over the years, and Mario's creator, Shigeru Miyamoto, decided to address them.

So where did Mario get his name? Funny enough, it came right off the rent check. According to Miyamoto, Mario was named after former Nintendo Of America warehouse landlord Mario Segale.

You may remember this box art to the original NES version of Mario. You may have also wondered if Mario is about to lose a life, as it looks like he's about to fall into the lava. Don't worry. Miyamoto says he won't... Likely because this image is eternally on pause.

Here's another debate Miyamoto settled. Pop quiz: Does Mario break blocks with his head or with his fist?

The official answer: his fist. Look closely.

Here's a lesser known fan theory. When Bob-ombs explode, do they turn into the ghost, Boo? While a fun thought, Mario's creator says "no."

Here's a theory you've likely heard. It involves Bowser Jr. Specifically, who is his mother?

Princess Peach has been kidnapped countless times by Bowser. Those two have spent a lot of alone time together. Could it be... did they...?

Miyamoto was asked point blank if he knew who Bowser Jr.'s mother was. He solemnly nodded... and pointed to himself. Hey, makes as much sense as everything else in the game. It's not like Mario Bros. is realistic.

In a silly interlude, Miyamoto was asked if he would let Dr. Mario operate on him. He was very emphatic with his answer, which was a resounding "no." I don't blame him. I don't trust any doctor who tries throwing pills at every problem. Dr. Mario is clearly in the pocket of Big Pharma.

Finally, we arrived at the most popular fan theory. It involves one of the most popular games of all time, Super Mario Bros. 3. So what exactly is everyone assuming about this adventure?

The theory is it's not an adventure at all. It's just a play; a performance put on by the characters. The first clue is that it opens with a curtain being raised, just like at a theater.

The next hint is the backdrop. Notice how there are shadows in the sky? That would happen if it's not actually the sky. Those platforms are casting shadows on a painted backdrop.

The final hint is at the end of every level. Doesn't it feel kind of like you're exiting stage right? The scenery abruptly stops as you walk off the stage (double meaning).

So is this game all just an elaborate performance? According to the game's creator... [drum roll]... it is! So don't worry if you lose a life while playing. Mario didn't die. It's just part of the script.

Who knew Mario was such a good actor? This is hilarious when you realize that Super Mario Bros. 2 was just a dream and its sequel was just a play. Mario took a long break away from actual adventures. Guess that's when he found the time to get his doctorate.