Disney secures Pokémon distribution, orders Aardman stop-motion series
Disney has signed a global distribution deal with The Pokémon Company, covering Pokémon shows and streaming content. As part of the agreement, Disney greenlit 'Pokémon Tales: The Misadventures Of Sirfetch'd & Pichu,' a stop-motion series from Aardman Animation. The show is targeting a 2027 release.
The announcement arrived during Pokémon XP, a fan-focused convention held in San Francisco, where Disney confirmed it would manage worldwide distribution of Pokémon television content. This follows the recent arrival of the original animated series on DisneyXD, signaling a broader integration of the franchise across Disney's streaming and cable platforms.
The stop-motion project, produced by the studio known for Wallace & Gromit, follows Sirfetch'd and Pichu on a whimsical journey through the Galar Region. Early footage highlights Aardman's signature tactile animation style, particularly in depicting Pokémon battle moves like Appletun's Apple Acid attack. The series targets a 2027 debut.
This deal could significantly expand Pokémon's reach among younger audiences through Disney's streaming and cable ecosystems. Families with Disney+ subscriptions may encounter the franchise anew, while Aardman's involvement could attract stop-motion animation enthusiasts. The 2027 release window gives Disney ample time to build anticipation, potentially strengthening its children's programming lineup against competitors and reinforcing Pokémon's cross-generational appeal.