Save Our Voice Actors

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We are a fan group supporting the Pokemon anime dubbed by 4Kids (seasons 1-8). Our major goal is to advocate the restoration of the classic Pokemon anime including returning main characters, improving script writing, and most importantly, bringing back the original voice actors in the dub. All of these factors contributed greatly to the overall success of Pokemon.Unfortunately, much of Pokemon’s original charm disappeared in 2006 when The Pokemon Company International (TPCi) made the decision to replace Veronica Taylor (the original Ash Ketchum) and the other voice actors. By doing this, The Pokemon Company caused the character's personalities to deteriorate, thus creating a downward shift in Pokemon's appeal.But that's not all that changed. There are more attributes to Pokemon's success that slipped away over the years. To some viewers, each episode feels like its missing some of that heart and spirit it had back during older seasons. It could be Team Rocket's more sinister stance; they no longer have that goofy attitude, motto, and catchphrase; "looks like Team Rocket's blasting off again!" Maybe its the fact that Brock isn't there to fall in love for every girl they meet, only to have Misty drag him away by the ear. Perhaps it was one of those moving and heartwarming times when Ash and his friends endured hardships with their Pokemon by their side to the end. Even the little things such as the inventive episode title may have brought a smile to your face. Whatever the issue may be, its not hard to see that Pokemon has changed. For some fans, these changes might not be that big of a deal while others are still thirsty for the formula they always knew that worked.SOVA originally formed after fans heard that TPCi was going to replace the voice actors starting in "The Mastermind of Mirage Pokemon" special episode. With the goal of stopping the voice change, we were well known throughout large Pokemon communities such as Bulbagarden and Serebii. There was a lot of support, but plenty of opposition as well. The movement essentially split the fans into two sides that often fought over the issue of voice acting. From false claims and threats to voice actors and SOVA, there were many problems that pushed us into the shadows. In the end, TPCi used the new voices anyway, despite the protests. Altogether, we had great impact but suffered multiple issues that eventually led to our disbanding. Rest assured, our staff are watching carefully for these issues to ensure they do not happen again!Today, we're working to rebuild SOVA and its reputation in order to bring a better future for Pokemon and Pokemon fans alike.Our primary goal is still to return the original voice actors to the show, starting with Veronica Taylor. In light of Pokemon's numerous changes however, we'd also like to expand our scope. In addition to supporting the original voices of Ash, Jessie, James,etc. some of you may want to support;a: Returning Misty and Brock to the anime, along with their original VA's (Eric Stuart and Rachel Lillis)b: Changing the Team Rocket trio back to their witty, comical attitudec: Calling forth improvements in plot and character dialogue to reflect a similar style to the older episodes. Changes in this are sometimes hard to pinpoint over time, but some can agree that Pokemon is lacking quality in these areas.To accomplish these goals, we must grow as a dedicated community so that TPC/TPCi will respond to our plea. You help us accomplish this by sharing your passion and actively discussing how the voice actors, characters, and episodes in the 4Kids dub were important to you.Hope exists as long as you believe in it. Despite what happened in the past, the simple fact is there are still people today who love Pokemon the way it used to be, and always will! The Pokemon Company has the ability to make choices regarding Pokemon, and we fans have the ability to speak up in hopes of influencing those choices. These are the the primary reasons why SOVA is being reconstructed.Ultimately, the grand vision of SOVA is to make a new place in the fandom and bring life, humor, passion, and soul back to Pokemon. Will we succeed in our goal? The answer is uncertain. Regardless, The Pokemon Company will once again hear us. Here at Save Our Voice Actors we have a reason to support the best of Pokemon again, a reason to be proud fans, and a reason to believe in what we feel is right. There is one lesson learned from Pokemon that stands out here; never give up on what’s truly important to you! Together, we really do have the power to make a difference!Fellow Pokemon fans, with your help we will strive to create a better future for the voice actors, for the fans, and for the entire Pokemon franchise!be sure to check out our Q&A and "how you can help" sections on the left side menu for more information.TPCi's mail address is included below:The Pokemon Company International333 108th Ave NE Suite 1900Bellevue, WA 98004You can also sign the petition to bring Veronica back as Ash at:http://www.petitiononline.com/pkmnash/petition.htmlIt's a little bit dated, but it's core purpose remains the same: to record the number of Veronica Taylor supporters. Remember to sign with both your first and last name. If you leave a comment, please don't curse, vent your anger at TPCi, or emphasize hatred of the new voice actors. Instead, write a sound and thoughtful message detailing your opinion.If you have any questions, please contact Ryan Woosley. Thanks!