In the original generation of Pokémon, only a handful of Psychic-types appeared. Given that they are incredibly powerful against most other types, this makes sense. One of those few is Kadabra, the evolved form of Abra who could evolve into Alakazam. And while this Pokémon has continued to appear in the games, it hasn’t been a part of the trading card game or anime for quite some time. This is due to illusionist Uri Geller.
Known for his signature spoon-bending trick, Geller sued Nintendo in 2000 for using his likeness for Kadabra without asking him. Though it isn’t just because Kadabra is bending a spoon in all of its appearances. The Japanese name for this Pokémon is Yungerer or Yungeller depending on the variation. That was just close enough for the Pokémon Company to honor his request and stop printing Kadabra cards. But now, Geller has had a change of heart.
TheGamer initially dug into the story, which prompted Geller to respond. He emailed the site, stating the following:
Due to the tremendous volume of emails I am still getting begging me to allow Nintendo to bring back Kadabra/Yungeller, I sent […] a letter to the chairman of Nintendo giving them permission to relaunch the Uri Geller Kadabra/Yungeller worldwide.”
Geller also apologized on Twitter:
I am truly sorry for what I did 20 years ago. Kids and grownups I am releasing the ban. It’s now all up to #Nintendo to bring my #kadabra #pokemon card back.
It will probably be one of the rarest cards now! Much energy and love to all!https://t.co/Rv1aJFlIKS pic.twitter.com/5zDMX5S8WA— Uri Geller (@theurigeller) November 28, 2020
Kadabra’s Long Absence In Pokémon
Kadabra was part of the Pokémon card game’s original set and has also appeared in various others such as the Gym Heroes set. But the last printing of a Kadabra card was in 2003. Future sets had to work around this lawsuit by letting Abra evolve straight into Alakazam. The game has also given Alakazam a premium card that can be played without the evolution process.
Although not part of Geller’s ban, it led to Kadabra not appearing in the anime for almost as long. According to Bulbapedia, it hasn’t appeared since the episode Fear Factor Phony. This episode aired in 2005 in Japan and in 2006 in the US. With Geller’s change of heart, Kadabra should be able to make more appearances.
Are you excited for Kadabra’s return? Let me know in the comments below.