MC Ballyhoo is a major character from Mario Party 8, in which he hosts the various game modes as the self-proclaimed, "master of catastrophes." He and his hat, Big Top, are the driving force behind the annual Star Carnival, hosting all of the attractions. While MC Ballyhoo is very extravagant and energetic in both speech and manner, Big Top is much calmer. Although the two rarely separate, they are separate entities capable of independent thought and action.
MC Ballyhoo is the creator of the Star Carnival. Ever since its conception, the MC has devoted each year to planning the next year's carnival. The winners of the main attraction, the Star Battles, can receive a year's supply of candy and the title of Super Star. Despite Bowser's interference, the MC still manages to keep the carnival running with the help of his guests.
MC Ballyhoo's name is based on the word "ballyhoo," meaning "great noise or commotion." This term is often applied to carnival audiences. The acronym "MC" traditionally stands for the title, "master of ceremonies", but with MC Ballyhoo it stands for "Master of Catastrophes".
