Rachael Lillis, known for her iconic voice roles as Misty and Jessie in the English adaptations of the popular Pokémon TV and movie series, has passed away at the age of 46. Veronica Taylor, the voice of Ash in Pokémon, confirmed the news on social media, revealing that Lillis lost her battle with breast cancer on Saturday.
Lillis was praised for her exceptional talent and the light she brought to her characters through her voice work. Her portrayals of Misty and Jessie in Pokémon endeared her to fans worldwide, making her performances truly beloved.
Grateful for the outpouring of love and support during her cancer fight, Lillis' family expressed their appreciation while requesting privacy as they mourn her loss. Plans for a memorial to honor her life are underway.
Born on July 8, 1978, in Niagara Falls, New York, Lillis initially trained in opera before transitioning to a successful career in voice acting. She lent her voice to Misty and Jessie in the Pokémon series for an impressive 423 episodes spanning from 1997 to 2015.
Additionally, Lillis contributed her talents to Pokémon movies such as the 1998 film 'Pokémon: The First Movie – Mewtwo Strikes Back' and the 2000 project 'Pokémon the Movie.' Her voice acting repertoire extended to other notable English adaptations like 'Your Lie in April,' 'Hunter x Hunter,' 'Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles,' and 'Mobile Suit Gundam Unicorn.'
Among her diverse roles, Lillis also voiced Satsuki in the 1992 TV series 'Guardian of Darkness,' showcasing her versatility and range as a voice actor.
Rachael Lillis leaves behind a legacy of memorable performances that have left a lasting impact on the world of animation. Her talent, dedication, and contributions to the industry will be fondly remembered by fans and colleagues alike.
