Pokémon voice actress Rachael Lillis, who played Misty, Jessie, Jigglypuff and more in the original series, has died aged 46 following a battle with cancer. Lillis was diagnosed with breast cancer in May 2024 and a GoFundMe page was set up by her sister Laurie Orr to help cover medical costs. It was through this page that Orr confirmed Lillis had passed away on August 10, 2024.
"With a heavy heart, I regret to say that Rachael has passed away," the post said. "She passed peacefully Saturday night, without pain, and for that we are grateful. She is with God, the angels, and family that has passed before her, surrounded by infinite love.
" She added: "My heart breaks losing my dear little sister, though I am comforted knowing she is free." 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 Lillis also played Vulpix, Venonat, and Goldeen in Pokémon.
Her other roles included Princess Charlotte in Berserk, Haruka in Midori Days, Dr. Reese Drake in Dinosaur King, Amy in Bakuman, Mito Freecss and Cocco in Hunter x Hunter, and many more. Original Ash Ketchum voice actress Veronica Taylor paid tribute to Lillis on social media.
"Rachael was an extraordinary talent, a bright light that shone through her voice whether speaking.