Beloved Pokémon Voice Actress Rachael Lillis Passes Away at 46

Rachael Lillis, the beloved voice actress known for her iconic roles in the original Pokémon series, has passed away at the age of 46 after a battle with breast cancer. Initially diagnosed in May 2024, she was supported through a GoFundMe campaign established by her sister, which was confirmed to be necessary as Lillis's health declined. Tributes poured in from fellow voice actors, reflecting on her talent and influence on many fans worldwide. Notable characters brought to life by Lillis include Misty and Jessie, two of the series’ most cherished figures. Her family plans to hold a memorial service and will use remaining donations to cover associated costs and contribute to cancer research in her memory.

Rachael Lillis voiced several key characters in Pokémon, including Misty, Jessie, and Jigglypuff, along with others like Vulpix and Venonat. Her performances were instrumental in defining the series' early popularity and resonated with audiences across generations.

Pokémon, which debuted on September 8, 1998, has become a global phenomenon, encompassing video games, trading cards, animated series, and movies. The franchise's enduring legacy is partly due to its memorable characters, many of whom were brought to life by talented voice actors like Rachael Lillis. The emotional depth and excitement these characters provided made Pokémon a staple in the lives of its fans, making Lillis’s contributions even more significant.