Pokémon animated series saying goodbye to Ash Ketchum and Pikachu after 25 years

After 25 years of following Ash Ketchum and his electrical pal Pikachu, Pokémon has introduced their journey can be coming to an finish in 2023. Following an 11-episode story arc targeted on the pair, the favored animated franchise will proceed with a give attention to new characters, in keeping with a video announcement.

The primary of the ultimate 11 episodes of “Pokémon Final Journeys: The Sequence” specializing in Ash and Pikachu’s journey will air in Japan on January 13, 2023. Whereas the enduring duo’s journey is in its closing chapter, followers may have new characters and Pokémon to observe. 

The present’s Twitter account teased an “all-new” sequence and confirmed what gave the impression to be two new characters and three “starter Pokémon.”

The announcement got here as a shock to followers worldwide.

Sarah Natochenny, who has been the English voice actor taking part in Ash for the final 17 years, wrote a farewell message that learn partly: “It doesn’t matter what lies past his closing chapter, he’ll dwell eternally within the hearts of many generations to come back. I am going to hold him current for all of us in each manner I can.”

Veronica Taylor, who provided the unique English voices of Ash and a number of other different characters till 2006, wrote that she was “stunned” by the announcement and that it marked an finish to a “joyful period.”

“An unimaginable 25 yr journey like no different! That is actually the tip of a really joyful period. Ash and Pikachu are the center of Pokémon. Ash could not age, however we now have all grown up with their friendship and adventures,” she wrote.

Tre’Vaughn Howard

Tre’Vaughn Howard is a producer and journalist for CBS Information, specializing in worldwide and tradition tales.