Charles Leclerc Discusses His Love for Pokémon

We’re just weeks away from the 30th anniversary of the release of Pokémon Red and Blue. In case you missed it during the big game, The Pokémon Company International’s new “What’s Your Favorite” commercial aired. A star-studded lineup of Lady Gaga, Trevor Noah, Charles Leclerc, Jisoo, Maitreyi Ramakrishnan, Lamine Yamal, and Young Miko is featured in the video, with each Pokémon fan teaming up with their own partner Pokémon.

We caught up with Leclerc to discuss what Pokémon means to him, his favorite ways to interact with the franchise, his involvement in the campaign, and more. Read the interview below and stay tuned for more updates regarding Pokémon’s 30th anniversary, especially as Pokémon Day, February 27, nears.

What drew you to take part in Pokémon’s 30th anniversary campaign?

Pokémon is a brand I genuinely love, and it played a big role in my childhood. It’s something that inspires young people all around the world, and being able to partner with a brand that has brought so much joy for 30 years, it felt very special.

You’re featured in the campaign alongside other icons from different fields. What does being included in that group mean to you personally?

Pokémon is incredibly inclusive; it brings together fans of all ages, backgrounds, and interests. For this campaign, they’ve brought together people from very different worlds. To be included in that group is an honor, and it feels great to be connected through something we all grew up loving.

“To be included in [this] group is an honor, and it feels great to be connected through something we all grew up loving.”

Pokémon is a brand that spans generations. What does it represent to you?

For me, it represents play, fun, and imagination. It’s a universe full of characters you get attached to, stories you remember, and memories you share with others. I grew up with it, just like so many people around the world, and that’s what makes celebrating 30 years so meaningful.

Do you remember the first Pokémon that really stuck with you?

It has to be Pikachu. In those early years, he really captured your imagination. But that’s the beauty of Pokémon; there’s such an incredible variety of characters that everyone connects with different ones. It’s such a rich, creative world.

You’ve chosen Arcanine as your partner for the campaign — what about that Pokémon resonated with you?

He’s fast and loyal — two qualities I’m very drawn to. Speed is obviously a huge part of my life, but it’s also a passion, so that connection made sense straight away. Beyond that, Arcanine is caring and protective, and he actually reminds me of a much bigger version of my dog, Leo, which made the choice even more personal.

“[Pokémon is] one of those rare brands that speaks to everyone, no matter your age, and that’s why it remains so iconic.”

Are you more drawn to Pokémon for their strength, personality, or design?

Honestly, all of it. Pokémon is such a creative universe; there really is something for everyone. If I had to choose, personality and design probably matter the most to me. And I love the names as well, they’re so playful and clever.

Why do you think Pokémon continues to resonate so strongly, even 30 years later?

Because it’s fun, inclusive, and incredibly rich as a universe. There’s so much diversity in the characters and the ways people can engage with it. It’s one of those rare brands that speaks to everyone, no matter your age, and that’s why it remains so iconic.

Many fans engage with Pokémon in different ways: games, trading cards, animation, collecting, and more. How do you like to enjoy Pokémon?

For me, it’s always been through the cards. Collecting them was a big part of my childhood, and I have very strong memories tied to that time; opening packs, discovering new Pokémon, and sharing those moments with friends. Those experiences really stayed with me, and they’re memories that are still very special to me today.