The new Pokémon series will welcome another Pikachu, following the announcement that Ash Ketchum and his loyal companion would no longer appear in the show.
The upcoming anime will see a different dynamic duo take centre stage. This happens after OG Pokémon star Ash (or Satoshi, as he's known in Japan) finally became the world's greatest trainer, winning the Pokémon World Coronation Series in Pokémon Ultimate Journeys last year.
In the new anime, Liko and Roy, together with Pokémon Quaxly, Sprigatito, and Fuecoco from the latest Scarlet and Violet games, will replace Ash and Pikachu as the protagonists.
Related: Pokémon Scarlet and Violet update coming this month, patch notes released
But it seems that a different, though equally adorable, Pikachu will make it to this new chapter in the Pokémon franchise as a furry friend to silver-haired professor Friede.
"We're giving you a first look at two new characters from the upcoming, all-new Pokémon animated series!" the Pokémon Company tweeted on February 24.
"Introducing Friede and his partner Pokémon, Captain Pikachu, who accompany our protagonists during their adventures!" the message also read, teasing "more info will be coming soon".
Presented to the world in first-look images, the two characters even wear complimentary outfits – Friede is dressed in an aviator jacket and goggles, while his Pikachu pal wears an airline pilot's hat.
Related: Pokémon replaces Ash in first trailer for new series
The news of another Pikachu protagonist was accompanied by a statement from Taito Okra, the vice president of marketing for The Pokémon Company International.
"For 27 years, Pikachu has been synonymous with the Pokémon franchise, and we look forward to seeing this beloved Pokémon continue to have a significant presence in the animated series and remain an icon for the brand," Okra said.
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Reporter, Digital Spy
Stefania is a freelance writer specialising in TV and movies. After graduating from City University, London, she covered LGBTQ+ news and pursued a career in entertainment journalism, with her work appearing in outlets including Little White Lies, The Skinny, Radio Times and Digital Spy.
Her beats are horror films and period dramas, especially if fronted by queer women. She can argue why Scream is the best slasher in four languages (and a half).
