Will Ash Return Again?
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The Pokémon franchise has officially confirmed that Ash Ketchum will not be the main character in the new anime series, but with one big caveat: an interview with the anime’s director suggests that fans haven’t seen the last of Ash and Pikachu, which has major implications for the reboot. Ash’s story has come to an end as the series will focus on brand new characters, but the director’s statement has left room for speculation about Ash’s potential return.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Ash’s Departure
- Is Ash leaving Pokémon in 2023?: Yes, Ash Ketchum and Pikachu are leaving Pokémon as the main characters in 2023, after 25 years of being the main protagonist of the Pokémon anime series.
- Is Ash no longer the main character?: Yes, Ash Ketchum is no longer the main character, and the series will focus on brand new characters, including Liko and Roy.
- Is Pokémon Journeys the end of Ash Ketchum?: Yes, Pokémon Journeys marks the end of Ash Ketchum’s journey as the main character, and the series will conclude with an 11-episode arc called Pokémon: Aim To Be A Pokémon Master.
About Ash’s Replacement
- Who is replacing Ash Ketchum?: The new Pokémon anime series will feature dual protagonists Liko and Roy, who will be joined by Pokémon Professor Friede and Captain Pikachu.
- Who is Ash getting replaced by?: Ash is being replaced by Liko and Roy, who will uncover the mysteries of the Pokémon world in the new series.
About Ash’s Personal Life
- Who is Ash’s future wife?: According to the Pokémon anime, Serena is considered Ash’s true love, not Misty.
- Does Ash love any girl?: Ash returns feelings only for Misty, to whom he is always very fond of, as shown by his attitudes and the way he talks about her to other friends.
About Ash’s Pokémon
- Who is Ash’s strongest Pokémon?: Pikachu has proven to be Ash’s strongest Pokémon, partnering with him since the beginning of his journey in the Kanto region.
- Will Ash bring back Charizard?: Yes, Charizard has rejoined Ash on his journey, and they have been reunited once again.
About Ash’s Age and Legacy
- Is Ash forever 10 years old?: Yes, despite the passing of time in the anime, Ash officially remains 10 years old.
- Is Ash grown up now?: If Ash had aged properly over the course of the series, he would be at least 17 or older, but he remains 10 years old.
- Does Ash have a son or daughter?: Fans have speculated that Liko may be the daughter of Ash Ketchum, due to the similarity in her hair clip to the logo on Ash’s first hat.
About Ash’s Retirement and Potential Return
- Is Ash getting retired?: Yes, after 26 years of being a part of the Pokémon franchise, Ash Ketchum is finally hanging up his hat, and the final episode of the Pokémon anime has aired in Japan.
- Will Ash return in Gen 9?: Although there is no official confirmation, the director’s statement has left room for speculation about Ash’s potential return in future generations, including Gen 9.
- Will Brock join Ash again?: Ash, Brock, and Misty have finally reunited after more than a decade apart, and it is possible that Brock may join Ash again in future episodes or series.