As no one seemed to finally become the best, Ash Ketchum’s 25-year run on the animated Pokemon TV series is coming to an end soon as the series will focus on brand new characters next year.
The boy from Pallet Town, along with his longtime partner Pikachu, became world champions in an episode of “Pokémon Ultimate Journeys: The Series” that aired in Japan in November. With the main character of the series as the top Pokemon trainer, The Pokemon Company announced that “the final chapter in the story of Ash and Pikachu” will end the journey that began in 1997 with 11 episodes starting on January 13, 2023.
“The upcoming special episodes not only celebrate Ash’s monumental achievement, but they also serve as an expression of gratitude from Pokemon to all the fans who have joined him and his fellow Pokemon Pikachu,” the Pokemon Company said in a statement. “They will provide a glimpse of what the future holds for Ash and his Pikachu in this final chapter for the world’s strongest trainer.”
After Ash’s story ends, Pokemon will move on to the dual heroes Liko and Roy in Japan in a new series to be released at some point in 2023.
“Fans can look forward to discovering the secrets of the Pokemon world – from exciting trainer battles to fun Pokemon encounters,” The Pokemon Company said.
Sara Natocheni, who has voiced Ash in the English version of the show since 2006, said in a Twitter post that it was an “extraordinary privilege” to voice the character.
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
“Whatever happens beyond his final chapter, he will live forever in the hearts of many generations to come. I will keep him present for all of us in every way I can,” Natocheni said.
Pokemon episodes usually air in the US and other parts of the world, months before they air in Japan. The Pokemon Company has not announced when the English version of the final episodes featuring Ash and Pikachu will air.
Episodes of “Pokémon Ultimate Journey: The Series” are available on Netflix in the US.