Is Ash Ketchum Leaving Pokémon Anime?
Is Ash Ketchum Leaving Pokémon Anime?
Is Ash Ketchum going to say his goodbyes to the Pokémon universe? This is a question that has been on the minds of many fans for some time now. While the Pokémon Horizons and the upcoming Pokémon GO-inspired series on Netflix keep the spirit of Ash Ketchum alive, speculation about his future in the live-action series remains intense.
Pokémon Horizons and Pokémon GO
The Pokémon Horizons series, currently available on BBC iPlayer in the UK and Netflix in the US, focuses on a new character named Goh. Similarly, Pokémon GO has Ash play a significant role. Despite these ventures, it's unclear if Ash Ketchum will retire from the live-action series for good. Time will tell, but the 100th episode of the Pokémon anime might hint at the conclusion of his journey.
Reasons for Ash Ketchum's Departure
There are valid reasons why the Pokémon Company might decide to bring Ash to a close. One major issue has long been criticized: the perpetual age of Ash Ketchum. While characters like Naruto Uzumaki and Luffy from One Piece grow and mature over time, Ash remains a 10-year-old boy in the eyes of his fans, even though 25 years have passed in the series. This inconsistency might lead to confusion and disappointment.
Is Ash's Departure Necessary?
Mature Transformation: The Pokémon Company could use a period where Ash takes a break to reintroduce him as a more mature character. This could be seen as a positive move, making room for the next generation while respecting the long-running legacy of Ash Ketchum. Fans who have been watching the series for decades would embrace this change.
Strategic Change: Alternatively, giving Goh the main spot in the next series could provide fresh blood and reignite excitement. However, there are concerns that replacing Ash might alienate long-time fans. Goh's performance in recent episodes of the Pokémon anime, while sometimes subpar, still holds promise for a new and engaging journey.
The Impact on Fans and the Series
Given the devoted fanbase of Ash and Pikachu, any decision to end the series with Ash would be met with mixed emotions. Fans are split between wanting him to stay and celebrating his journey as it concludes. Some might see it as a natural end to an era, while others hope for another chapter in Ash's adventures.
The decision to end or continue the Ash Ketchum series will undoubtedly impact the future of the Pokémon franchise. It could also influence the writing team, who will have to navigate the complexities of bringing the beloved character to a satisfying close.
What CanFans Expect?
As the Pokémon anime approaches its 100th episode, the writing team is under pressure to craft a story that resonates with fans and sets a positive precedent for the future of the franchise. The decision to end the series will be a significant one, potentially shaping the direction of the Pokémon franchise for years to come.
Stay tuned for updates as the live-action series continues, and for more information on Ash Ketchum's journey, visit the official Pokémon Anime and Master Journeys websites.