For millions of ’90s kids and Pokémon fans worldwide, Ash Ketchum and his quest to become a Pokémon Master have been an integral part of their childhoods. But as the beloved character’s journey comes to an end, Rica Matsumoto, the talented Japanese voice actor behind Ash (known as Satoshi in Japan), found herself overwhelmed with emotion during her final recording session.

In a heartfelt Instagram post, the 54-year-old Matsumoto shared her struggle to complete Ash’s last lines. The veteran voice actor admitted that she had to take a short break to collect herself before finishing the iconic character’s final moments back in January, months before the episode aired.

Matsumoto’s revelation came just days after she performed the original opening track of the Pokémon series on the YouTube channel, The First Take. The nostalgic performance not only showcased her incredible talent but also highlighted her deep connection to the Pokémon universe.

Fans around the globe have expressed their appreciation for Matsumoto’s dedication and the passion she has poured into bringing Ash Ketchum to life for more than two decades. As the curtain closes on Ash’s adventures, it’s clear that the impact of this character and the Pokémon series will continue to live on in the hearts of fans everywhere.

While we bid farewell to Ash Ketchum, we also celebrate the legacy that Rica Matsumoto has helped create. As the Pokémon world continues to expand and new characters emerge, we’ll always remember the aspiring Pokémon Master who taught us the importance of perseverance, friendship, and never giving up on our dreams.

Written by Robert D