Pokémon main man Ash Ketchum and Pikachu are set to bid goodbye to the anime series after 25 years, as the Pokemon anime series is altering up its formula.
Following the conclusion of Pokémon Ultimate Journeys: The Series, a new Pokémon television series that will star two new protagonists named Riko and Roy will make its debut in 2023. In the upcoming series, the three starter Paldea Pokémons, Sprigatito, Fuecoco, and Quaxly, will travel with the duo.
Given that Ash and Pikachu finally attained the pinnacle of the Pokémon universe earlier this year during the World Coronation Series Masters Eight Tournament, their departure seems logical. Ash finally accomplished his goal and became the Pokémon champion after he vanquished longtime rivals and fresh challengers all over the world. He had previously come close to being recognized as the best (like no one ever was) Pokémon trainer in a number of regional conference tournaments.
Sarah Natochenny, the English voice actress of Ash Ketchum, took to Twitter her farewells for the Pokémon fans after 17 years of lending her voice as the long-time trainer.
It’s been an extraordinary privilege to have been the English voice of Ash Ketchum for what will be 17 years. No matter what lies beyond his final chapter, he’ll live forever in the hearts of many generations to come. I’ll keep him present for all of us in every way I can. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/UZxPO4xD6E
— Sarah Natochenny (@sarahnatochenny) December 16, 2022
Pokémon Ultimate Journeys‘ upcoming 11 episodes will wrap out Ash & Pikachu’s tale, along with a few specials that, in Nintendo’s words, “give a glimpse at what the future may hold” for the two. Several famous Pokémons and the legendary trainer’s lifelong buddies can be seen in the trailer below.
Meanwhile, Pokémon fans have been expressing their mixed feelings online.
When I was 33 years old, my Pokémon toy-making journey began. Next year I turn 50. Personally and professionally, and from the bottom of my heart…
Thank you, Ash.
Thank you, Pikachu.❤️ pic.twitter.com/X1Y2sFcSdP— Jeremy Padawer (@JeremyCom) December 16, 2022
automated ooo reply: sorry I am unavailable right now, I am in mourning over Ash and Pikachu being sunsetted as the main Pokémon anime protagonists. If it is an emergency you can find me crying into my pile of pikachu plushies. pic.twitter.com/iBCqyk91ZD
— Mica Burton (@MicaBurton) December 16, 2022
Over 1,300 episodes of the Pokémon television series have been released so far, with the first episode premiering in 1997 in Japan and 1998 in the US. Since then, the series has been running non-stop.
While the upcoming series’ details are still under wraps, it is anticipated that it will be set in the Paldea region, the locale of the newly released Pokémon Scarlet and Violet video games.
What are your reactions to Ash & Pikachu leaving the series? Share us in the comments below!