In a notable change for streaming enthusiasts, Netflix has announced that it will be removing its original Pokémon series, Pokémon: To Be a Pokémon Master: Ultimate Journeys, from its platform next month. This decision comes as the series, which marks the conclusion of Ash Ketchum’s adventures, is set to be taken off the service on September 8, 2024. The departure will occur concurrently with the removal of Stephen Chbosky’s 2017 film, Wonder.
Pokémon: To Be a Pokémon Master: Ultimate Journeys is the final chapter of Pokémon: Ultimate Journeys, wrapping up the long-running saga of Ash Ketchum following his dramatic championship showdown with Leon. Despite its significance as a major release for Netflix, the streaming giant has yet to provide an explanation for the series’ removal, leaving fans in the dark about the decision.
Since its debut on Netflix in October 2022, Pokémon: Ultimate Journeys has followed Ash Ketchum and his faithful Pikachu as they navigate the World Coronation Series, striving to secure a battle with the esteemed champion, Leon. Accompanied by Goh, a fellow trainer with aspirations of capturing every Pokémon, including the Legendary Mew, the series has seen the return of beloved characters such as Brock, Misty, and Cilan, as well as a reunion with Ash’s past Pokémon companions.
The end of To Be a Pokémon Master signals a transition for the Pokémon franchise, ushering in Pokémon Horizons, an original Netflix anime that follows new trainers Liko and Roy. This series introduces additional characters like Professor Friede and Captain Pikachu, and continues to expand the Pokémon universe. The highly anticipated third part of Pokémon Horizons recently premiered, continuing the storyline introduced by the legendary Pokémon Terapagos. As of August 9, 2024, the show has aired 60 episodes in Japan, with 34 available on Netflix.
While Pokémon: To Be a Pokémon Master: Ultimate Journeys is leaving Netflix, other Pokémon content will remain on the platform. Fans can continue to stream the original series Pokémon: Indigo League, and the original stop-motion series Pokémon Concierge is also available, with new episodes currently in production. However, the release date for these new episodes has yet to be announced.