Ash Ketchum has been the primary protagonist of the Pokémon animated series since its debut in 1997. The plucky, determined 10-year-old has been working on becoming a Pokémon Master for more than two decades, traveling through each of the eight different regions and meeting new friends and Pokémon along the way. However, Ash's story appeared to reach its conclusion when he became League Champion in the Sun and Moon anime. Despite his goal being achieved, he has continued on to co-star in Pokémon Journeys, when it may have been better for Ash to finally retire and leave the Pokémon series.

Ash's long-time role as the hero in the anime has allowed generations of Pokémon fans to grow with him. He has also been the star of almost all of the 23 Pokémon movies used to fill gaps between new seasons or to address Legendary Pokémon not included in the anime. While his presence in the series has become an expected staple for most fans, the lack of change has prevented the Pokémon anime from tackling new ideas and introducing new characters who aren't side-companions for Ash's journey.

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By letting Ash's Pokémon story come to a close, the animated series could address other characters from the Pokémon games who have only been included through cameo appearances so far. A new season could follow Champion Leon from Pokémon Sword and Shield, showing how he, Raihan, and Piers became such powerful trainers long before the events of the games. Pokémon Generations and Twilight Wings could be revisited and turned into a full-length show, rather than a series of shorts on YouTube. A whole new original character could take up the mantle and begin their journey through the Galar region, which has only been touched on during the Pokémon Journeys anime.

The Pokémon Anime Needs To Let Ash Grow Up

Where Ash Pokemon Go Every Region

The Pokémon anime has prevented Ash from growing up. He was 10 years old when he set out from Pallet Town, and despite having traveled for so long, with the passage of time marked by new companions and adventures, he still appears to be only 10. Letting Ash grow up and showing who he is able to become would give fans of the anime closure - especially for those who have been following the series since the '90s and have since become adults. Many fans would like to know what Ash does with his life, whether he starts a family, and whether his potential children have Pokémon journeys of their own.

While Ash has been an admirable and determined hero for the Pokémon series, it is time to let him retire. Doing so will allow new heroes to stand in the spotlight and new stories in the Pokémon world to be told. Through hard work, determination, and a steadfast desire to do the best he can, Ash has become a Pokémon Master in the eyes of fans, and it seems there is little left in his story to tell. Hopefully, the Pokémon anime will consider a nostalgic goodbye for the beloved trainer, allowing old doors to finally shut and new ones to potentially open.

Next: Do Pokémon's Ash and Serena Ever Get Married?