Pokémon’s Misty and Jessie voice actor Rachael Lillis has passed away

Rachael Lillis, the voice actor best known for her wide-ranging work on the Pokémon franchise, has passed away.

Lillis died on Saturday at the age of 46, following a battle with breast cancer.

Among numerous roles across films, games and other media, American-born Lillis was the original English voice actor for Pokémon anime characters including Jessie and Misty.

News of her passing was shared by fellow voice actor Veronica Taylor, who previously voiced Pokémon protagonist Ash Ketchum, and paid tribute to Lillis in a post on X.

“It is with a very heavy heart that I share the news of the passing of Rachael Lillis on Saturday evening, 10 August, 2024,” Taylor wrote.

“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. It truly made a positive difference. Her family also wishes to thank you as they take this time to grieve privately. A memorial is being planned for a future date.”

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. #RachaelLillis pic.twitter.com/XOjFqY0C1L

— Veronica Taylor (@TheVeronicaT) August 12, 2024

A GoFundMe campaign launched earlier this year raised almost $100,000 to help care for Lillis.

In an update on the funding page, her sister Laurie Orr said Lillis “passed peacefully Saturday night, without pain, and for that we are grateful”.

She added: “She was moved to tears when seeing the GFM page with your comments & kind thoughts.

“She remembered many of you that she happily met at conventions, for instance, and related stories to us about the experience and all the people she appreciated meeting!”

Funds donated for Lillis will go towards outstanding medical bills, her memorial service, and to causes combatting cancer.

“My heart breaks losing my dear little sister, though I am comforted knowing she is free,” Orr wrote.