Pokémon USA recasting controversy: Difference between revisions

This is a highly controversal topic and may not be neutral. See Discussion Page to talk about the article's neutrality.

On March 21st, 2006, infomation was let out to the public that Pokémon USA is going to recast the Voice Actors for the English Dub of Pokémon Season 9 and onwards. Pokémon USA is planning to use the special that will air on April 29th (The Mastermind of Mirage Pokémon as a testing ground for the new voice actors. This caused a controversey in the Pokémon Fan Community since they opposed the recast.

Introduction

Few months earlier this year, 4Kids lost merchandising rights to dub anymore Pokémon Episodes. Instead, dubbing was handed to TAJ Studios, which worked on the Pokémon series before. There was a catch, there is a high possiblity for the Voice Actors to be replaced to sound like the old voices. The special episode, which will air on April 29th will be used as a testing ground for the new voices. If it goes well, they will replace the old voice actors.

Emails

Members from various Pokémon forums sent emails to the actual Voice Actors who dubbed the Pokémon series formerally.

Eric Stuart

Pokémon USA has decided that it's too expensive to use 4Kids and the actors that have made Pokémon the TV show such a success for the last 10 years. They have 'behind our backs' re-cast the show with 'sound-a-likes' to try to save money. They acutally believe the fans don't care. They are starting with the 10 year anniversary special - starring all new voices. The main cast, me included, has taken a lot of pride in the characters we have helped to create. To change now, on the last season, based on greed is a sad example of what big buisness kids marketing really is.

Please spread the word - maybe some fan buzz can stop this tragedy.

Eric "Brock & James" Stuart [1]

Veronica Taylor

Hey Scott- Unfortunately, this is very real. We have been informed that Pokémon USA has already made plans to do the Anniversary special with substitute voices. Apparently, they haven't made a firm decision on the next season yet. None of us have been formally asked to do the show, we've simply been told we'll be replaced. Pokémon USA has made no effort to negotiate with 4kids, simply feeling that getting a cheaper rate to dub the show is enough. They care nothing for the quality. They will be using new script writers, voices, music, etc. We (the voice actors and those at 4kids who work so hard on the show) are all extremely upset as we care very much for Pokémon and what we've worked to create. However, there is nothing that we can do. It seems that the only recourse is for fans to write to Pokémon USA and tell them how wrong their decision is and how it will adversely affect the show.

Thanks for your concern. Please spread the word and let's all try to work together to right this wrong before it's too late.

Veronica [2]

Reaction

Many fans were upset and opposed the idea of recasting the Voice Actors with new ones. Some liked the idea because they did not like the old voice actors. Some wanted to see the special episode before making a comment.

Some fans who opposed the idea of recasting decided to send letters to Pokémon USA by mail and email. A online petition has been made also by online members.

Sources

1. Save Our Voice Actors - http://www.bulbagarden.net/pokemoncreations/sova/
2. Pokémon Palace Network - http://www.pokemonpalace.net/