News

Ash Ketchum to retire after one more series

After over 20 years of being the star, Ash is retiring! He gets one more short season before stepping aside.

The Pokémon anime is getting a major shake-up! Ash Ketchum, the protagonist since the very beginning, is to be replaced by two new characters. TV Tokyo reports that the new series will air in April 2023.

To all fans of the Pokémon TV animated series

In April 1997, Ash and his Pikachu jumped out of Pallet Town and embarked on their journey meeting many Pokémon, many people, made new friends and headed on to another town — they continued on.

Fortunately, we have been able to watch over the adventure and growth of Ash and his Pikachu until today, and this is all thanks to you all, the supporting fans. We would like to express our sincere gratitude.

Starting from January 2023, “Pokémon: Mezase Pokémon Master” will begin which will give one answer to the long-standing question of what exactly is the “Pokémon Master” that Ash has been striving to become.

And from April 2023, a new series of Pokémon TV animation featuring new protagonists, Liko and Roy, will start. In the new Pokémon TV animated series, the camera will follow the adventures of the duo.

It was not easy to determine how and when to share this news. We decided today is the day, when we brought to you the story of Ash and Goh coming to a conclusion.

Our entire staff will continue to work hard to bring you Pokémon animation filled with dreams and adventures. Please look forward to the future development of the “Pokémon” animated series.

December 16, 2022
Pokémon TV Animation Team

Ash hasn’t gone and retired just yet – he will feature in a 11 episode series starting 13th January, before enjoying retirement.

What do you make of this news? Are you sad to see Ash go, or do you think it’s long overdue?