‘Pokémon’ Voice Actor for Misty & Team Rocket’s Jessie Passes Away at 46

Rachael Lillis, the beloved voice actor known for portraying Misty and Team Rocket’s Jessie in Pokémon, has passed away at the age of 46.

Lillis died on August 10 after a brief battle with breast cancer, which she had been diagnosed with in May 2024. Veronica Taylor, her co-star who voices Ash Ketchum in the Pokémon series, shared the sad news on social media.

“We all know Rachael Lillis from the many wonderful roles she played. She filled our Saturday mornings and before/after school hours with her beautiful voice, her terrific comic timing, and her remarkable acting skills,” Taylor wrote on X, previously known as Twitter.

In a heartfelt statement, Taylor added, “Rachael was an extraordinary talent, a bright light that shone through her voice whether speaking or singing. She will be forever remembered for the many animated roles she played, with her iconic performances as Pokémon’s Misty and Jessie being the most beloved.”

“Rachael was so thankful for all of the generous love and support that was given to her as she battled with cancer,” the statement continued. “It truly made a positive difference. Her family also wishes to express their gratitude as they take this time to grieve privately. A memorial is being planned for a future date. With love, Veronica.”

Taylor also shared on X the profound personal loss she feels. “I was lucky enough to know Rachael as a friend,” she noted.

“She had unlimited kindness and compassion, even until the very end. She had a great sense of humor, was wonderful to be with, incredibly intelligent, and had such a memory. She worked hard and cared deeply,” Taylor added.

Taylor further reflected, “I am not sure how this very dark void will be filled now that her light no longer shines in it. Like the shooting stars in the Perseids, Rachael was a magnificent wonder and truly special. She burned bright and vanished too soon. She will live on in our memories for eternity.”

Beyond her iconic Pokémon roles, Lillis voiced several other characters in various animated series and video games. Her credits include Intress in Chaotic, Thalia in Shadow of the Elves, Jigglypuff in Pokémon, Natalie in Ape Escape 2, Ursula in Dinosaur King, Hela in Cubix—Robots for Everyone, Faragonda in Winx Club, Ohno in Genshiken, and Martina in Slayers Next, among many others.

Rachael Lillis’s voice brought joy and excitement to countless fans worldwide, and her contributions to the world of animated entertainment are immeasurable. She will be deeply missed by her friends, family, and innumerable fans who grew up listening to her iconic characters.

Source: Deadline