Rachael Lillis, a voice actress known for playing Jessie and Misty in the Pokémon anime dub, has died of cancer. She was 46.
For voice actor Veronica Taylor (the original voice of Ash), Lillis passed away on Saturday, August 10. Taylor went on to describe her as “an extraordinary talent, a bright light that shone through her voice, whether she was speaking or singing.
Born on July 8, 1978, Lillis landed her first lead voice role in 1997's Takegami: Guardians of Darkness. Over the course of her career, she has provided voice work for series such as Revolutionary Girl Utena, Hunter x Hunter, and the 2003 Ninja Turtles animated series.
Gameplay-wise, she reprised her role as Misty and Jessie in Pokémon: Puzzle League. She voiced Jigglypuff in that game and in the Super Smash Bros. series, and also provided the voice for Lego Jurassic World AND Escape from the monkey 2.
In addition to dubbing, Lillis has also adapted and translated the screenplays for Apocalypse Zero and Cleopatra DC.
After the news of her passing, several voice actors praised her on social media. “An icon gone too soon,” one wrote. Mortal Combat 1 actor The Tang of Kaiji. “Rachael was responsible for so many happy Saturday mornings for so many children, including myself. We will always remember your voice.”
“Although she has had many other incredible roles, growing up with the Pokémon anime wouldn't have been the same without her and her incredible talent,” the voice actress added. Leonardo“My condolences.”
“Please know that Rachael saw your messages and contributions and was very touched and grateful,” he said. Sands of TaraBulbasaur's original voice. “A wonderful person left us too soon.”
“[Rachael] He worked hard and cared deeply,” she continued Taylor. “Like the shooting stars in the Perseids, it was a magnificent and truly special wonder. It shone brightly and disappeared too soon. It will live on in our memories for eternity.”
After being diagnosed with cancer in May, Fundraising was launched to help raise money for his treatment. Payments will now go toward remaining medical expenses, a memorial, and causes in his name to fight cancer.
“It breaks my heart to lose my dear little sister, though I take comfort in knowing she is free,” Laurie Orr wrote. “We ask for peace, for now, while her family grieves this loss.”