It looks like the world’s most famous Pokémon trainer is headed for retirement. In 2023, Ash Ketchum’s journey will end, and fans will instead follow two new protagonists in an all-new Pokémon series.

Ash is currently working towards his 25-year-long-goal of becoming World Champion in Pokémon Ultimate Journeys: The Series. But beginning January 13, 2023, the show will air 11 special episodes to celebrate Ash’s journey and give him and Pikachu a proper sendoff. Expect to see familiar faces like Team Rocket, Brock, Misty, and Gary along the way.

“Ash Ketchum’s determination and perseverance to achieve his goal of becoming the world’s top Pokémon Trainer over the course of 25 seasons represents the very best of what it means to be a Trainer,” said Taito Okiura, VP of marketing for The Pokémon Company International. “We cannot wait to celebrate this moment with Pokémon fans when the newest season of Pokémon Ultimate Journeys: The Series and this adventure-defining episode air around the world in the coming year. This is a season fans won’t want to miss!”

Following Ash and Pikachu’s exit, Pokémon will launch a new show featuring dual protagonists, Liko and Roy. They’ll kick things off with the Paldea region’s starter Pokémon Sprigatito, Fuecoco, and Quaxly, as seen in the recent games Pokémon Scarlet and Pokémon Violet.

You can watch the official announcement of Ash’s exit and the new series below.

You can stream Pokémon Ultimate Journeys: The Series on Netflix.

So, what do you think about Pokémon moving on without Ash and Pikachu? Let us know in the comments below.

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