The Pokémon cartoon, which was housed by Cartoon Network on the last 10 years, will be making its move to cable as Pokémon Company International recently announced its animation distribution deal with Disney XD in the United States.

"Pokemon" Series, Movies Airing on Disney XD

Starting Dec. 5, Disney XD network will acquire the rights to showcase new and old Pokémon episodes, particularly the entirety of the shows' 19 season run.

According to Anime News Network, the network and its multiple platforms will air the 20th season of the popular Pokémon animated series and much of the Pokémon animation library, including 19 previous seasons consisting of over 900 episodes plus 15 movies.

"Pokemon Sun and Moon" Series Air Date

WWG reported that the upcoming season of the beloved Pokémon animated series will be titled Pokémon the Series: Sun & Moon, which will air every week in Disney XD starting in 2017. This season marks the introduction of new characters and action-packed adventures that continue the great storytelling and narrative of the Pokémon universe as trainers venture on the islands of Alola region.

"Pokemon" Movie Release Date on Disney XD

Along with the long running anime series' airtime rights, Disney XD will also premiere the new feature-length animated film, "Pokémon the Movie: Volcanion and the Mechanical Marvel," on Dec. 5. Its story circulates on Ash and Volcanion's adventure as they rescue Magearna from a foe who wants to use its mysterious powers to take over the kingdom.

Senior vice president at The Pokémon Company International Emily Arons suggested that the said multiyear partnership is still part of the company's 20-year celebration. He says that "Disney XD is the perfect way to deliver Pokémon animation to kids and fans across the country on its multiple platforms."

"Pokemon" Series Rights Transfer To Disney XD

The transfer of rights over Disney XD marks the fourth time that Pokémon has switched stations during its 18-year U.S. run. From its original network, UPN, the Pokémon series was transferred to Kids WB's Saturday morning cartoon block before Cartoon Network took over the series content, followed by the shutdown of Kids WB in 2006.

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Tags Pokemon Sun and Moon