Rachael Lillis, who voiced the iconic characters Misty and Jessie in the animated series based on the Pokémon video games, has passed away at the age of 46. She died on Saturday, August 10, after a courageous battle with breast cancer.
The news of her passing was confirmed by a family member. Her sister, Laurie Orr, shared the heartbreaking update on a GoFundMe page, writing, “I regret to say that Rachael has passed away. We are grateful that she passed peacefully on Saturday night, without pain. She is surrounded by endless love and is now with God, the angels, and our family members who have gone before her.”
Lillis began her career as a voice actor in the 1990s and quickly became a beloved figure in the world of anime and video games. She lent her voice to notable roles in video games like Hunter X Hunter and Super Smash Bros.
However, Lillis is perhaps best known for bringing to life some of the most memorable characters in the original Pokémon anime series. She voiced Misty, the spirited gym leader; Jessie, one half of the notorious Team Rocket duo; and Jigglypuff, the adorable yet powerful singing Pokémon.
In addition to her work on the Pokémon TV series, Lillis also voiced characters in several Pokémon movies, including Pokémon: The First Movie, Pokémon: The Movie 2000, Mewtwo Returns, Spell of the Unown, Pokémon 4Ever, and Pokémon Heroes.
Veronica Taylor, who voiced Ash Ketchum in the Pokémon series, paid tribute to her friend and co-star in a heartfelt post on X (formerly known as Twitter).
“It is with a very heavy heart that I share the news of the passing of Rachael Lillis,” Taylor wrote. “Rachael was an extraordinary talent, a bright light that shone through her voice whether speaking or singing.”
Taylor continued, “She will be remembered for all time for the numerous animated roles that she played, with her most beloved performances being those of Misty and Jessie from Pokémon. During her battle with cancer, Rachael was deeply moved by the outpouring of love and support she received. It made a significant difference.”
Reflecting on their friendship, Taylor added, “I was fortunate enough to know Rachael as a friend. Even up to the very end, she radiated love and compassion. She had an amazing sense of humor, incredible talent, a phenomenal memory, and was a joy to be around. She worked hard and cared deeply for others. With her light no longer shining, I am unsure how this immense darkness will ever be filled.”