Rachael Lillis, Pokemon Voice Actress Known for Misty and Jessie, Passes Away at 55

Rachael Lillis Pokemon
Pokemon

Rachael Lillis , a voice actor who starred in many “Pokémon” films and series as the characters Misty, Jessie and more, died Aug. 10. She was 55.

While initial reports stated Lillis was 46, the New York Times confirmed with her sister, Laurie Orr, that her birthdate was July 8, 1969.

Lillis was diagnosed with breast cancer in May. Veronica Taylor, Lillis’ “Pokémon” co-star who voiced the lead character Ash Ketchum, shared the news of Lillis’ passing on X on Monday morning.

“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 ‘ Pokemon ‘s’ Misty and Jessie being the most beloved. Rachael was so thankful for all the generous love and support that was given to her as she battled 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.”

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Lillis embarked on her voice acting journey in the 1990s and lent her voice to numerous TV shows, anime series, video games, and more until the late 2010s. She brought Misty, the water-type gym leader, to life in the original “Pokémon” anime in 1998. Misty became one of the most beloved characters in the early “Pokémon” world, alongside Ash, his Pikachu, and their friend Brock. Lillis also voiced Jessie, one half of the infamous Team Rocket alongside her partner James and their talking Meowth.

She breathed life into the pink, singing Pokémon Jigglypuff, along with various other creatures. Lillis voiced Jigglypuff across all four installments of Nintendo’s popular “Super Smash Brothers” fighting game series. She also voiced the Pokémon Goldeen in the games. Lillis appeared in the 1999 “Pokémon: The First Movie” as Misty and Jessie, as well as in “Pokémon: The Movie 2000,” “Mewtwo Returns,” “Spell of the Unown,” “Pokémon 4Ever,” “Pokémon Heroes,” “Jirachi Wish Maker,” “Destiny Deoxys,” “Lucario and the Mystery of Mew”, and more.

“Rachael Lillis was a remarkable talent who brightened our lives with her memorable performances. Her voice, comedic timing, and acting prowess made her a beloved presence on our screens, especially during our Saturday mornings and after-school hours,” Taylor shared. “Beyond her professional achievements, I was fortunate to know Rachael personally. She possessed an unwavering kindness and empathy, qualities that shone through until the very end. Her infectious humor, warm presence, sharp intellect, and remarkable memory made her a joy to be around. Rachael dedicated herself to her craft and cared deeply for her work. It's difficult to imagine how we will fill the void left by her absence, as her light has dimmed. Like the fleeting brilliance of a Perseid meteor, Rachael was a radiant star who burned brightly, only to disappear too soon. Her legacy will forever endure in our hearts.”

Aside from her work on “Pokémon,” Lillis also contributed her voice to popular anime series like “Your Lie in April,” “Hunter x Hunter,” and “Winx Club,” among many others.

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