Despite this extensive journey, one thing has remained constant… Ashs age.
This issue isnt just a creative decision but a byproduct of behind-the-scenes conflicts.
Recently, leaked conversations betweenPokemonsproduction team revealed internal struggles over whether or not to age their protagonist.
For years, Ash Ketchum was the franchises mascot in the anime world.
How long can Liko and Roy last before another reset happens?
When the original series debuted, Naruto Uzumaki was a 12-year-old ninja with a dream of becoming Hokage.
This allows for anatural progression in storytelling, making way for more mature themes like war.
Similarly,Dragon Ballages up Goku over time.
Then his sonGohan becomes the protagonist, grows up, and repeats the cycle.
This has allowed fans to grow alongside the characters while keeping the franchise relevant across multiple generations.
Instead of aging Ash naturally,Pokemonintroduces soft resetswhere he gains new companions and reverts to a rookie-like state.
This would maintain brand consistency but might frustrate longtime viewers hoping for something new.
Ash Ketchum’s last appearance in the anime was on November 11, 2022.
Alternatively,Pokemoncould go the multiverse route.
Regardless of how he returns, one thing is certain:Pokemonhasnt truly said goodbye to Ash.
Humans who catch, raise, and battle the creatures are known as Pokemon Trainers.
