3 Years Ago Today, Pokemon Fans Said Goodbye to Ash for the Final Time

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Today marks three years since the end of Ash Ketchum’s incredible 26-year run as the star of the Pokémon anime. While the series continues with a new storyline and fresh characters in Pokémon Horizons: The Series, the change was a big surprise for fans. After almost 30 years, many were shocked to see the anime move beyond Ash’s quest to become a Pokémon Master.

Following Ash Ketchum’s victory at the World Championship in Pokémon Ultimate Journeys: The Series, a special final season called Pokémon Aim to Be a Pokémon Master aired. This season served as a farewell to Ash, sending him on one last adventure after he finally won a League tournament during his time in the Alola region. The series concluded on March 24th in Japan, marking a final goodbye to the beloved trainer.

Pokémon’s Anime Said Goodbye to Ash 3 Years Ago Today

I watched the last episode of Pokémon Aim to Be a Pokémon Master air in Japan on March 24, 2023 (with the English dub coming out internationally later that fall). It was really something to see Ash finally return home to Pallet Town after all his adventures across so many Pokémon regions! He got to reconnect with his old rival, Gary, and it was clear he was taking in everything he’d accomplished – becoming the Pokémon World Coronation Series Champion by defeating some incredibly strong trainers, old rivals, and even past League Champions he’d met along the way. It really capped off a long journey.

The latest Pokémon series followed Ash as he competed in a global tournament, expanding beyond just one region. This new challenge brought familiar faces – not only new Gym Leaders, but also past opponents joining the competition. The series was full of nostalgic moments and references to Ash’s previous adventures. However, despite winning the championship, Ash felt his journey wasn’t truly finished, as he realized that becoming a Pokémon Master meant more than just winning a title.

Now that his journey was complete, Ash realized being a Pokémon Master wasn’t about winning competitions—it was about the Pokémon he met and befriended along the way. This realization marked a farewell to Ash’s story, as the anime shifted its focus to new characters and adventures. It was a bittersweet goodbye for a generation of fans who had grown up watching Ash, and signaled a fresh start for the Pokémon franchise after celebrating its 25th anniversary.

Will Ash Ever Return to the Pokémon Anime?

It’s been three years since Ash appeared in the Pokémon anime, so a return isn’t out of the question. Although his main story has concluded, it’s not a definitive ending for his character. He’ll continue to explore the Pokémon world, leaving the door open for him to reappear in the future—even if not as the central protagonist.

As the Pokémon anime approaches the end of its current season, it’s unclear what’s next for the series. The new main characters might continue the adventure with fresh storylines, similar to how Ash Ketchum did for many years. Alternatively, the show could introduce a completely new set of heroes. However, there’s always a chance Ash could reappear as a character the new protagonists encounter during their travels.

It’s been a while since we’ve had a new Pokémon movie, so Ash might reappear in a big new film adventure sometime down the line. He’s a huge part of what makes Pokémon so popular, and the anime felt different without him. While the show can succeed with new characters, it hasn’t quite reached the same heights since Ash stepped down. Bringing him back could be a great way to recapture that original excitement.

It’s exciting to think about what’s coming next! What are your thoughts? Share them in the comments below and join the discussion in the ComicBook Forum!

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2026-03-24 23:10